Victory Field

Economic reasons and consolidation. After World War II, the much larger and better-equipped Vernon Army Air Field was turned over to the city and became Wilbarger County Airport (KVIH). Victory Field, with its unpaved turf runways, could not compete and became redundant, leading to its closure.

The site is no longer an airport and is unrecognizable as such from the ground. The land has been completely converted to agricultural use, primarily for farming and a large cattle feedlot. Satellite imagery shows agricultural fields and related structures where the airfield once stood. All original hangars, barracks, and other airfield buildings have been demolished.

Victory Field was a U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) contract primary flight training school during World War II. Activated in 1941, it was operated by the Hunter Flying Service and the Wilson-Bonfils Flying School. Aviation cadets received their initial flight training here, primarily using Fairchild PT-19 trainers. The airfield consisted of a large turf landing area, several hangars, and barracks for the cadets. It played a vital role in the early stages of pilot production for the war effort. After being declared surplus by the military in 1944, it operated as a small civilian airport for a few years before its final closure.

There are no plans or prospects for reopening Victory Field. The land has been fully repurposed for agriculture for over 70 years, and all aviation infrastructure is gone. The aviation needs of Vernon and the surrounding area are adequately served by the Wilbarger County Airport (KVIH).