The Name Ohare Airfield
The name Ohare Airfield is well-known in the aviation industry as one of the busiest airports in the United States. Located in Chicago, Illinois, it serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights. However, many people may not know the story behind the name of this iconic airport.
Early History of Ohare Airfield
Originally known as Orchard Place Airport, Ohare Airfield was built in 1942 during World War II by the United States Navy. It was used as a training base for naval pilots and was later transferred to the United States Army Air Corps. In 1946, the city of Chicago took over the airport and renamed it Ohare Field, in honor of Edward "Butch" O’Hare, a World War II fighter pilot who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions.
The Military Connection to Ohare Airfield
Ohare Airfield has a strong connection to the military due to its history as a training base for naval pilots during World War II. After the war, the airport continued to be used for military purposes, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Today, the airport is still used by the military for transportation and logistical purposes.
The Tragic Death of Butch O’Hare
Edward "Butch" O’Hare was born in Chicago in 1914 and joined the United States Navy in 1937. He became a fighter pilot and was assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Lexington in 1942. On February 20, 1942, O’Hare and his squadron were on a mission to intercept a group of Japanese bombers headed for the USS Lexington. O’Hare single-handedly engaged the enemy planes, shooting down five of them before he was shot down himself. He was declared missing in action and presumed dead.
The Legacy of Butch O’Hare
Butch O’Hare’s heroic actions did not go unnoticed. In 1942, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. O’Hare was the first naval aviator to receive the award. His legacy lives on at Ohare Airfield, which was renamed in his honor in 1946.
The Campaign to Rename the Airport
In the early 1980s, a group of Chicago aldermen began a campaign to change the name of Ohare Airport to Chicago Airport. They argued that the name was confusing to travelers and that it did not accurately represent the city. However, the proposal was met with opposition from veterans groups and other supporters of Butch O’Hare.
The Official Renaming of Ohare Airfield
Despite the opposition, the campaign to change the name of the airport gained momentum in the late 1980s. In 1989, the Illinois General Assembly passed a resolution officially renaming the airport to Chicago Ohare International Airport.
The Ceremony and Unveiling of the New Name
On September 2, 1996, a ceremony was held at Ohare Airport to unveil the new name. The ceremony was attended by members of the O’Hare family, as well as city and state officials. The new name was unveiled on signs throughout the airport and on the terminal buildings.
The Future of Ohare Airfield
Ohare Airfield continues to be one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers each year. The airport is undergoing a major expansion project, which includes the construction of a new terminal and runway. The expansion is expected to increase the airport’s capacity and improve the passenger experience.
Conclusion: Honoring Butch O’Hare
The name Ohare Airfield may be synonymous with air travel, but it is important to remember the man behind the name. Edward "Butch" O’Hare was a hero who gave his life in service to his country. The renaming of the airport was a fitting tribute to his bravery and sacrifice. As Ohare Airfield continues to grow and evolve, it is important to keep Butch O’Hare’s legacy alive and honor his memory.
