Phan Rang Air Base
Phan Rang Air Base was located along the coast, with the airfield located about 3 miles (4.8 km) inland. The facility is located near the base of rugged jungle-clad mountains to the west. Near the entrance to the base are ruins of a Cham temple, reportedly built in the 12th Century.The USAF forces stationed there were under the command of the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) Seventh Air Force. In addition, the United States Navy, and United States Marine Corps had aviation and other support units stationed at Phan Rang.
Phan Rang Air Base was quickly expanded in 1965 to accommodate both United States and VNAF fighter and helicopter units. The modernized airfield consisted of two 10,000-foot runways 04L/22R concrete and 04R/22L AM-2 planking with parallel taxiways and covered and open aircraft revetments along with several ramps and parking aprons on both sides of the runways. They were constructed with asphalt and AM-2 pierced steel aprons. In addition, a large support base was constructed with a large control tower, fire rescue units, maintenance facilities, supply warehouses, munitions storage, barracks and a wide variety of support buildings including service clubs and recreation facilities.
Phan Rang Air Base was quickly expanded in 1965 to accommodate both United States and VNAF fighter and helicopter units. The modernized airfield consisted of two 10,000-foot runways 04L/22R concrete and 04R/22L AM-2 planking with parallel taxiways and covered and open aircraft revetments along with several ramps and parking aprons on both sides of the runways. They were constructed with asphalt and AM-2 pierced steel aprons. In addition, a large support base was constructed with a large control tower, fire rescue units, maintenance facilities, supply warehouses, munitions storage, barracks and a wide variety of support buildings including service clubs and recreation facilities.
Personal Memories
My brother Vic and myself were stationed at Phan Rang for 8 months. We slept in the same tent and patrolled together as members of the 35th APS. Panther flight was on duty from 2100 to 0600 as primary security for the perimeter.
Donald Dinubilo 1966-1967
My brother Vic and myself were stationed at Phan Rang for 8 months. We slept in the same tent and patrolled together as members of the 35th APS. Panther flight was on duty from 2100 to 0600 as primary security for the perimeter.
Donald Dinubilo 1966-1967
