Norton Air Force Base
Museum
History of
Norton Air Force Base
Norton Air Force Base (1942–1994) was a United States Air Force facility located in San Bernardino, California, in San Bernardino County.
For the majority of its operational lifetime, Norton was a logistics depot and heavy-lift transport facility for a variety of military aircraft, equipment, and supplies as part of Air Materiel/Air Force Logistics Command (1946–1966), then as part of Military Airlift/Air Mobility Command (1966–1994).
Norton AFBM Bench Dedication
On Saturday, April 19th, at 1300 hours, the 57th Alumni Association proudly dedicated its thirteenth commemorative bench at the Norton Air Force Base Museum. This bench serves as a heartfelt tribute to the brave individuals who flew, maintained, and supported the iconic C-141 Starlifter aircraft, a cornerstone of military airlift operations for decades.
The dedication ceremony took place at the museum, located in the Norton Regional Event Center (formerly the NCO Club) in San Bernardino, California. The museum itself is dedicated to preserving the rich history of Norton Air Force Base and its contributions to the U.S. Air Force.
Representing the 57th Alumni Association at this special event was Lew Shedd, CMSgt (Ret), who played a pivotal role in honoring the legacy of the C-141 and the countless individuals who contributed to its success. The association's motto, "Keeping it Alive," underscores their commitment to ensuring the memory of the C-141 Starlifter and its crew remains vibrant and celebrated.
This dedication is part of a broader initiative by the 57th Alumni Association to place granite benches at various locations, including museums and sites with static C-141 displays. These benches symbolize the enduring legacy of the aircraft and the people who made its missions possible.
If you're ever in the San Bernardino area, the Norton Air Force Base Museum is a wonderful place to visit and learn more about the history of the base and the aircraft that played a vital role in military operations.
An Amazing Find
WHAT ARE THE CHANCES!
A local photographer was looking for some military props for a picture. She went to a yard sale in Riverside with her friend. They discovered a footlocker with the name 1ST LT. LELAND F. NORTON and Service # 0792301. She immediately knew of its importance and donated it to the museum. We checked the service number, and it is his. On the footlocker is printed: EFFECTS. So, we have Norton’s personal footlocker that was returned to his family. We understand the family has moved away from San Bernardino. We are extremely excited to have Norton’s personal footlocker on display at the NAFB Museum.
1st Lt. Leland F. Norton was a heroic pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Born on March 12, 1921, in San Bernardino, California, he tragically lost his life on May 27, 1944, during a bombing mission in France. Norton is remembered for his bravery and dedication, and his legacy lives on through various memorials, including Norton Air Base and the Leland F. Norton Elementary School in his hometown. His actions during the war earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross and a Purple Heart. The discovery of his footlocker is a poignant reminder of his sacrifice and the enduring impact he has had on his community and country.
New Display Banners
The Norton Air Force Base Museum has recently enhanced the visual appeal of its exterior by installing three eye-catching banners on the fence surrounding the museum. These banners are bound to grab the attention of any passerby. The first banner features the C-141 Starlifter of ACFT 177, a majestic aircraft that once played a vital role in the US Air Force's strategic airlift missions. The second banner displays the C-141 Starlifter Camouflage, a version of the aircraft that was used during the Gulf War to transport troops and supplies. Finally, there's the B2 Stealth Bomber banner, a rare and highly advanced aircraft that's considered to be among the most technologically advanced in the world. These banners are a testament to the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the US Air Force and are a must-see for anyone visiting the area.