Virtual Museum Marianas Airdrome Construction Construction of the Marianas Airdrome, at the southern end of Saipan, began immediately upon capture by American forces. Later, the airdrome was renamed Isley Field, in honor of the first American fighter pilot lost over Saipan at the onset of the air attacks on Saipan. Wrecked Japanese aircraft bulldozed and pushed aside for construction work to begin at Iseley Field, June 1944. Bach, E.R. Two images at Marianas Airdrome immediately after capture by U.S. forces. Navy Seabees setting to work repairing runways after capture.
Construction workers follow right behind combat troops, and begin construction immediately.
American fighter aircraft begin arriving immediately as soon as the runway is repaired. Note the heavily damaged Japanese hangars in background. Two images at Marianas Airdrome immediately after capture by U.S. forces. Lt.Col. McLean, pilot of first plane to land on Saipan during the battle. Soldiers clustering around a water carrier filling canteens.