The Yuma Army Air Field was an advanced training ground for army pilots during World War II. The air field was first created in the 1920s as a simple open field with a windsock for use by airplanes. In 1942 the Army was given the use of the land for a flight training school and the first cadets arrived in January, 1943. In the first year alone, the Yuma Field saw a dozen graduating classes. The Yuma Field offered advanced training in AT-6, T-17, and B-17 models. It was noted as being one of the busiest air fields in the United States. In 1946, after the war had ended, the Army declared the field to be surplus to their needs and returned the field to civilian control. The field would later become an U.S. Air Force base, a U.S. Marine station, and an international airport.
This collection consists of donations from many individuals who were involved with the Yuma Army Air Field. Papers and other material retained by soldiers stationed at the base make up the bulk of the collection.
The collection is organized in 10 series: Series I – Airfield, Series II – Memorabilia, Series III – Personal Papers, Series IV – Photographs, Series V – Publications, Series VI – Women Airforce Service Pilots, Series VII – YAAF Veteran Events, Series VIII – Yearbooks, Series IX – Videos, Series X – Scrapbook.
