December 24, 1941: California Coastal Patrol Training

  • Published
  • US Army Air Forces

The 30th Bombardment Group arrived at Muroc to conduct antisubmarine patrols and train bomber crews for other units. The 2d Reconnaissance Squadron arrived at Muroc that same evening to patrol the coastal zone. These groups flew the YB‑17 Flying Fortress, B-18 Bolo and LB-30 (an export version of the B-24 Liberator) bombers.

California during World War II was a major contributor to the World War II effort. California's long Pacific Ocean coastline provided the support needed for the Pacific War. California also supported the war in Europe. After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941 most of California's manufacturing was shifted to the war effort. California became a major ship builder and aircraft manufacturer. Existing military installations were enlarged and many new ones were built. California trained many of the troops before their oversea deployment. Over 800,000 Californians served in the United States Armed Forces. California agriculture, ranches and farms were used to feed the troops around the world. California's long coastline also put the state in fear, as an attack on California seemed likely. California was used for the temporary and permanent internment camps for Japanese Americans. The population of California grew significantly, largely due to servicemen who were stationed at the new military bases/training facilities and mass influx of workers from around the U.S. in the growing defense industries. With all the new economy activity, California was lifted out of the great depression. Over 500,000 people moved to California from other states to work in the growing economy. California expanded its oil and mineral production to keep up with the war demand.

 

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