Draft:Naval Outlying Landing Field Cuddihy

NAAS Cuddihy
NOLF Cuddihy
Corpus Christi, Texas, United States
Blueprint of Cuddihy 1940s
NAAS Cuddihy Location in Texas
Coordinates	27°43′15″N 97°30′40″W
Type	Naval Auxiliary Air Station/Naval Outlying Landing Field
Site information
Controlled by	United States Navy
Condition	Operational
Site history
Built	1941
In use	1941–1960 (present)
Events	World War II
Airfield information
Runways Direction Length and surface 13/31 5000x100ft Asphalt

NAAS Cuddihy, (also known as Naval Outlying Landing Field Cuddihy/NOLF Cuddihy) it was established in 1941 as one of three satellite fields supporting Naval Auxiliary Air Station (NAAS) Corpus Christi during World War II. Located south of Corpus Christi International Airport, Cuddihy Field played a crucial role in training naval aviators.

History

Established in 1941 during World War II. It served as one of three satellite fields supporting Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, primarily for training naval aviators. The airfield was named after Naval Aviator Lieutenant Richard F. Cuddihy, who had died in an aircraft accident in 1937. The airfield featured a distinctive eight-runway, star-shaped layout, a design common among auxiliary fields in the Corpus Christi area during that era. This configuration facilitated efficient flight operations and training exercises.

The establishment of Cuddihy Field was part of a broader expansion of naval aviation facilities in Texas during the early 1940s. This expansion included the development of other auxiliary fields such as Rodd Field and Cabaniss Field, all aimed at bolstering the United States' military readiness during a critical period. These facilities were integral to the Navy's strategy to rapidly train and deploy skilled aviators for combat operations.

The construction of Cuddihy Field and its counterparts was overseen by the Defense Plant Corporation, founded in 1941 to expedite the development of defense-related infrastructure. The swift completion of these fields exemplified the nation's mobilization efforts and commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in response to global conflicts.

George T. Cuddihy Incident

Following his graduation, Lieutenant Cuddihy became the Navy's chief test pilot, a role in which he was instrumental in evaluating and advancing naval aircraft technology. His expertise and dedication were pivotal in enhancing the performance and safety of naval aviation during his tenure.

On November 25, 1929, at the age of 33, Lieutenant Cuddihy tragically lost his life while testing a Bristol Type 105 Bulldog II fighter (Bu. No. A8485) at Anacostia Naval Air Station. Reports suggest that the aircraft's wings detached during a high-speed maneuver, leading to the fatal accident.

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Cuddihy NAAS was critical for the Navy’s efforts to train pilots during the war, producing skilled aviators for combat and patrol missions.

Infrastructure: The field featured an innovative eight-runway, star-shaped layout, enabling efficient takeoffs and landings in various wind conditions. This layout, along with multiple hangars, barracks, and support facilities, reflected the high activity level during wartime.

Post-War & Decimmissioning

After World War II, the air station remained operational, continuing to support Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. However, as aviation technology advanced and military requirements changed, the field's role diminished. By the 1960s, Cuddihy NAAS saw reduced activity.

Decommissioning

Cuddihy Field continued to operate under the jurisdiction of NAS Corpus Christi. However, by the late 20th century, After its closure as a military installation, the airfield was officialy decommissioned and repurposed for civilian use. It is now known as Cuddihy Field Airport, designated 07TE.

See Also

• Kingsville Naval Outlying Fields
• Corpus Christi International Airport
• NAS Corpus Christi