MCAS Miramar, CA Installation Guide

MCAS Miramar is located approximately 15 miles north of downtown San Diego. If arriving by car from the West on I-8, take I-15 North to Miramar Way exit and follow signs to main gate. If you are arriving from the North on I-15, you can turn west on Miramar Road, go 1/2 mile and enter at the North gate. If arriving from I-5 or I-805 go East on Miramar Road and drive 4 miles to the north gate. If arriving by air at Lindbergh International Airport it is important to know there is no military shuttle service to the air station. Taxi fare is approximately $35. If you use bus transportation several transfers may be necessary. Information may be obtained by calling 233-3004. Route 20 Express stops at various locations on base; Route 30 Express takes you to the North gate. There are a number of commercial shuttle services available at the airport. Prices range from 15 to 25 dollars one way (see page 13-Community Transportation).

Major Commands:

Marine Corps Airbases Western Area Headquarters, Third Marine Aircraft Wing, Combat Service Support Detachment-14, and Marine Aircraft Group-46 (Reserves).

Telephone Information: (858) 577-1011, DSN 267-1011

History:

Miramar is a former cattle and citrus ranch that was first acquired by the Military for Army Infantry Training in 1914, then called Camp Kearny. After World War I aviation had secured a foothold in San Diego and in military strategy, and Miramar became an Auxiliary field for the Navy and a major air base for the Marine Corps. When World War II broke out, Miramar quickly expanded. At the end of the war the Marines moved to El Toro and Miramar was developed as a Master Jet Station. In 1973 E-2C Hawkeye Squadrons joined the Miramar fighters. "Fightertown" was the center of tactical training for the Tomcat Fighters and Hawkeye Wizards. Highly technical aviation maintenance schools trained men and women to repair and maintain the aircraft. As of 1 October 1997, Naval Air Station Miramar realigned to Marine Corps Air Station, bringing fighter and helicopter squadrons from El Toro. Miramar is the Marine Corps' largest aviation facility.