Oklahoma's military contributions during World War II were significant and far-reaching. The state became home to numerous Army and Air Force bases, training thousands of soldiers and airmen for combat. These installations brought economic growth and diversification to Oklahoma's communities.

The 45th Infantry Division, largely comprised of Oklahomans, fought bravely in major European campaigns. Native American code talkers from Oklahoma tribes played crucial roles in secure communications, while the state's aviators and naval personnel made notable contributions across various theaters of war.

Military bases in Oklahoma

Major Army and Air Force installations

• Tinker Field near Oklahoma City established in 1941 as major aircraft maintenance and supply depot
• Will Rogers Field in Oklahoma City served as training center for transport pilots and mechanics
• Fort Sill became crucial artillery training center and expanded operations during war
• Camp Gruber near Muskogee activated in 1942 as large infantry training facility
• Altus Army Airfield established in 1942 as advanced flying school
  • Trained pilots in multi-engine aircraft operations
  • Prepared aircrews for bombing and transport missions

Naval facilities and specialized training centers

• Norman Naval Air Station commissioned in 1942 to train naval aviators
  • Focused on primary flight training for Navy and Marine Corps pilots
  • Utilized nearby Lake Thunderbird for water landing practice
• Oklahoma hosted specialized training facilities for specific military roles
  • Parachute rigging schools
  • Radar operator training centers
  • Chemical warfare defense instruction sites

Oklahoma's role in key battles

Contributions of the 45th Infantry Division

• Known as the "Thunderbirds," comprised largely of Oklahomans
• Participated in major campaigns in Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany
  • Involved in the invasion of Sicily (Operation Husky)
  • Fought in the Battle of Anzio in Italy
  • Participated in the liberation of Dachau concentration camp
• Earned 8 Medal of Honor recipients and 61 Distinguished Service Crosses

Native American code talkers and specialized units

• Oklahoma Native American code talkers played crucial roles in secure communications
  • Comanche code talkers served in European Theater (D-Day, Battle of the Bulge)
  • Choctaw code talkers utilized in Pacific Theater operations
• Oklahoma aviators contributed significantly to air superiority
  • Clarence "Bud" Anderson became a triple ace with 16.25 aerial victories
  • Charles B. Hall, first African American pilot to shoot down an enemy aircraft
• USS Oklahoma, named after the state, sunk during attack on Pearl Harbor
  • 429 crew members lost their lives
  • Served as rallying point for Oklahoma's wartime commitment

Participation in major operations

• Oklahoma military personnel involved in D-Day operations
  • Paratroopers from 101st Airborne Division (Screaming Eagles)
  • Naval personnel supporting amphibious landings
• Oklahoma's contribution to Tuskegee Airmen program helped break racial barriers
  • Trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama
  • Served with distinction in European Theater, escorting bomber formations
• Many Oklahomans served in Merchant Marine, supporting critical supply lines
  • Braved dangerous Atlantic and Pacific shipping routes
  • Delivered vital supplies, equipment, and troops to war zones

Military contributions' impact on Oklahoma

Economic and industrial growth

• Establishment of military bases led to significant population growth and urbanization
  • Oklahoma City and Tulsa experienced rapid expansion
  • New housing developments and infrastructure projects initiated
• Military-related industries experienced substantial growth
  • Aircraft manufacturing (Douglas Aircraft Company in Tulsa)
  • Oil production increased to meet wartime demand
  • Diversified Oklahoma's economy beyond agriculture

Social and cultural changes

• Influx of military personnel and families led to increased cultural diversity
  • Introduction of new cuisines, customs, and traditions
  • Intermarriage between local residents and military personnel
• Experience of women in wartime industries challenged traditional gender norms
  • Women entered workforce in unprecedented numbers (Rosie the Riveter movement)
  • Gained new skills and independence, altering family dynamics
• Post-war benefits enabled many Oklahoma veterans to pursue advancement
  • G.I. Bill provided educational opportunities
  • VA home loans facilitated home ownership
  • Contributed to growth of middle class in Oklahoma

Long-term impacts on state development

• Presence of military installations fostered long-term economic relationships
  • Created stable source of employment in communities
  • Attracted defense contractors and related businesses
• Oklahoma's contributions instilled sense of patriotism and national pride
  • Influenced state's political landscape (strong support for military spending)
  • Encouraged ongoing volunteerism and civic engagement
• Military training and technology transfer benefited civilian sectors
  • Advancements in aviation and communications adopted by private industry
  • Veterans' skills and leadership experience applied to business and politics