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History of AIR STATION MIAMI

**Military History of Air Station Miami:** Air Station Miami, established in 1932, is one of the oldest and busiest United States Coast Guard air stations. Originally located at Dinner Key, it played a vital role during World War II, conducting anti-submarine patrols and search and rescue missions in the Atlantic and Caribbean. The station relocated to Opa-locka Airport in 1965, expanding its operational capabilities with modern aircraft such as the HC-144 Ocean Sentry and MH-65 Dolphin helicopters. Today, Air Station Miami continues to provide critical support for maritime law enforcement, drug interdiction, migrant operations, and disaster response throughout the southeastern United States and the Caribbean basin.

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ABOUT AIR STATION MIAMI

  • Oldest Coast Guard Air Station: Air Station Miami is one of the oldest Coast Guard air stations, established in 1932, originally at Dinner Key in Biscayne Bay, making it a pioneer in maritime aviation.
  • World War II Contributions: During WWII, Air Station Miami played a crucial role in anti-submarine operations and search and rescue missions, helping to protect Allied shipping from German U-boats in the Atlantic and Caribbean.
  • Cuban Exodus Support: The unit was pivotal during the Mariel boatlift in 1980, providing aerial surveillance and rescue for thousands of Cuban refugees crossing the Florida Straits.
  • Modern Relocation: The original station at Dinner Key moved in 1965 to the Opa-locka Airport (Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport), where it currently operates, allowing for expanded facilities and aircraft.
  • Hurricane Response: Air Station Miami has been central in disaster relief, notably after major hurricanes such as Andrew (1992), Katrina (2005), and Irma (2017), conducting rescues and delivering humanitarian aid.
  • Drug Interdiction: The station is a key player in counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, supporting the interdiction of illegal drug shipments bound for the United States.
  • International Cooperation: Air Station Miami frequently works with foreign partners and agencies like the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, furthering joint training and operational missions across the Caribbean.
  • Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the unit has operated a variety of aircraft, from the Grumman JF-2 Duck and Sikorsky helicopters to the modern HC-144 Ocean Sentry and MH-65 Dolphin helicopters.
  • High Operational Tempo: The station is one of the busiest in the Coast Guard, conducting thousands of search and rescue, law enforcement, and patrol missions each year across a vast area of responsibility.
  • Distinguished Unit Citations: Air Station Miami and its crews have received numerous commendations and awards for heroism and excellence, reflecting a proud legacy of service and sacrifice.

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