O’Hare Airport
O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving more than 83 million passengers annually. Located in Chicago, Illinois, O’Hare has become a major transportation hub for the United States and is named after one of the most famous fighter pilots of World War II, Butch O’Hare. But who was Butch O’Hare, and how did he become the eponym of one of the world’s busiest airports?
Early history: Orchard Field Airport
Before it was known as O’Hare International Airport, the airport was named Orchard Field Airport. It was established in 1923 as a small landing field in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. The airport’s location was ideal for military training during World War II, and it was used by both the Army and Navy for pilot training.
Chicago’s Mayor, Edward J. Kelly
In 1946, Edward J. Kelly became the mayor of Chicago, and he was determined to make Orchard Field Airport into a world-class airport that could rival other major airports in the country. Mayor Kelly began a massive expansion project that included building new runways and terminals to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
The influence of WWII on the airport
The expansion of the airport was also driven by the aftermath of World War II. The United States was experiencing a period of economic growth, and air travel was becoming more popular. The federal government provided funding for airport expansion projects, and Orchard Field Airport became one of the beneficiaries of this funding.
The death of Butch O’Hare
Butch O’Hare was born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1914, and he became a fighter pilot during World War II. In 1943, O’Hare was flying over the Pacific Ocean when he encountered a group of Japanese bombers. He shot down several of the planes before his own plane was hit and he was forced to bail out. O’Hare was later declared missing in action, and he was presumed dead.
The Medal of Honor and legacy of Butch O’Hare
After his death, Butch O’Hare was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military award in the United States. The Navy also named a destroyer after him, and the airport in Chicago was eventually renamed in his honor. O’Hare became a symbol of American heroism and bravery, and his legacy has been celebrated in books, movies, and other media.
Renaming of Orchard Field to O’Hare International Airport
In 1949, Mayor Kelly officially renamed Orchard Field Airport to O’Hare International Airport. The decision to rename the airport was controversial, with some critics accusing Kelly of using the name to boost his own political career. However, the decision ultimately stood, and the airport has been known as O’Hare ever since.
Controversy over renaming the airport
Despite the controversy surrounding the renaming of the airport, it has become an important part of Chicago’s history and identity. The airport has continued to grow and expand over the years, and it remains a vital transportation hub for the city and the country.
The impact of O’Hare International Airport
Today, O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with more than 83 million passengers passing through each year. The airport is a major economic driver for the city of Chicago, providing thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in revenue.
Conclusion: Remembering Butch O’Hare
While the controversy surrounding the renaming of the airport may never be fully resolved, the legacy of Butch O’Hare continues to inspire and motivate people around the world. From his heroic actions during World War II to the renaming of a major airport in his honor, Butch O’Hare’s story is a testament to the power of courage and sacrifice. As we continue to remember and honor his legacy, we can also celebrate the many ways in which O’Hare International Airport has impacted our world.
