Norton
Air Force Base Museum
History of
Norton Air Force Base
Norton Air Force Base (1942–1994) was located in San Bernardino, California. Primarily a logistics depot and heavy-lift transport facility, it operated under Air Materiel/Air Force Logistics Command until 1966 and then under Military Airlift/Air Mobility Command until its closure.
Norton Air Force
Base Museum
The Norton Air Force Base Museum aims to preserve and promote the history and legacy of Norton Air Force Base, highlighting its people, missions, and impact on San Bernardino and the nation. Through exhibits and community engagement, the museum shares the stories of Airmen, civilians, and families, inspiring future generations.
Norton Air Force
Base Shout Out!
The Norton Air Force Base Museum receives many former assigned personnel visitors to relive some of the memories of their time at the Air Base.
We give them a platform to "Shout Out" to their friends and family. Shoutouts are available to all visitors of the Norton Air Force Base Museum.
The History of Memorial Day &
Norton AFB’s Legacy of Service
The Origins of Memorial Day
Memorial Day traces its roots to the years following the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more American lives than any war before or since. Communities across the nation began holding springtime tributes to fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and flags. These early observances became known collectively as Decoration Day.
On May 30, 1868, General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic formally established the first national Decoration Day, choosing a date when flowers would be in full bloom across the country. After World War I, the day expanded to honor all American service members who died in any conflict. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday, observed on the last Monday in May.
Today, Memorial Day stands as a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom and the enduring gratitude owed to those who never returned home.
Norton Air Force Base and the Spirit of Service
From 1942 to 1994, Norton Air Force Base played a vital role in America’s military readiness. As a major logistics hub and home to heavy‑lift aircraft such as the C‑141 Starlifter, Norton supported missions across the globe—from humanitarian airlifts to wartime operations. Thousands of Airmen, civilians, and families contributed to the base’s mission, carrying forward a tradition of service rooted in sacrifice.
The Norton Air Force Base Museum preserves this legacy through exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories that honor the men and women who served. Memorial Day offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their contributions and the sacrifices made by those who never returned.
Visit the Museum This Memorial Day Weekend
This Saturday, we welcome visitors to explore the museum, connect with the history of Norton AFB, and pay tribute to the heroes who gave their lives in service to our nation. Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or a community supporter, your presence helps ensure that their stories continue to inspire future generations.
We invite you to walk through our exhibits, share memories, and join us in honoring the legacy of courage, duty, and sacrifice that defines Memorial Day.
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.