World War II Memorial
- Donated by: Clarke Historical Museum, 2016
- Description: The World War II Memorial at ACV features tall engraved panels with the names of Humboldt County service members, military insignias, a folded American flag in a display case, and a donor recognition plaque. The installation also includes a touchscreen kiosk that provides additional historical information.
- Location: Main terminal, California Redwood Coast–Humboldt County Airport (ACV)
- Additional Information: This community-led project was made possible with support from sixteen local philanthropic groups and individuals, in partnership with the Clarke Historical Museum.
The Clarke Historical Museum, with support from local organizations and individuals, designed a permanent World War II Memorial for installation at ACV on July 16, 2016. The memorial pays tribute to Humboldt County veterans who served in World War II, with special recognition of those who gave their lives.
Features of the memorial include:
- Blue wall panels engraved with the names of local veterans
- Military branch insignias and a folded flag displayed in a central case
- A donor recognition plaque and supporting wall text
- A computerized touchscreen kiosk providing videos, slideshows, and additional information about the Second World War and Humboldt County’s role in the conflict
The memorial also features portraits of local veterans by artist and North Coast Honor Flight co-founder Kathrin Burleson, as well as vintage photographs that document the era.
Portraits for viewing: Honor Flight Portraits.
List of Humboldt County Citizens Reported Dead & Missing During WWII: Veterans KIA/MIA.
World War II in Humboldt County: War in Humboldt County.
The World War II Memorial at ACV is especially fitting because the airport itself played a role during the war. Built by the U.S. Navy, the airport served as a defogging test site to help pilots land safely in foggy conditions. It also supported Naval Air Station Alameda on San Francisco Bay and functioned as the 12th Naval District headquarters for the Eureka section of local naval defense forces.
The idea for a permanent memorial originated with Steve Justus and Kathrin Burleson, cofounders of North Coast Honor Flight. Their inspiration, combined with the efforts of the Clarke Historical Museum and broad community support, led to the installation of this memorial to honor Humboldt County’s WWII veterans.