Ramey Air Force Base Museum

The Ramey Air Force Base Museum in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, preserves and celebrates the history of Ramey Air Force Base, which was an important U.S. military installation from its inception in 1939 until its decommissioning in 1973. The base was initially a strategic location for the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) and later the United States Air Force (USAF), primarily due to its position in the Caribbean, making it a key player during World War II and the Cold War.

Ramey Air Force Base Museum

Punta Borinquen Resort at 90 Wing Road

Aguadilla

Puerto Rico 00604

www.rameyafb.net/borinquen-field-ramey-afb-museum/

rameymuseum@gmail.com

Saturday 09:00 – 16:00

Admission by donation

Gift shop

Aircraft collection

Beechcraft D-50 Twin Bonanza N10AM of Ramey Air Force Base Museum Aguadilla 00603, Puerto Rico

N10AM Beechcraft D-50 Twin Bonanza

Photo Gallery

Key Aspects of the Museum

  1. Exhibits and Artifacts: The museum showcases a wide array of artifacts from the base’s operational years, including uniforms, photos, documents, and personal items donated by veterans and their families. It also has exhibits on the aircraft that were stationed at Ramey, including the B-36 Peacemaker and B-52 Stratofortress bombers, both of which were vital to U.S. defense during the Cold War.
  2. Historic Aircraft and Equipment: Some aircraft and military equipment from the base’s history are preserved on-site, including engines, parachutes, and rescue gear. The museum provides a glimpse into the base’s operations, highlighting the base’s contributions to both national defense and local Puerto Rican communities.
  3. Legacy of the 72nd Strategic Reconnaissance Wing: The base was home to the 72nd Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, which operated heavy bombers and reconnaissance aircraft and was integral in monitoring the Caribbean region. The museum honors this wing’s history and its role in the Cold War, with detailed displays explaining its missions and operations.
  4. Cold War and World War II History: The museum’s exhibits also delve into the broader history of World War II and the Cold War, contextualizing Ramey’s role within these conflicts. Visitors can learn about the surveillance and intelligence-gathering missions conducted in the Caribbean, including monitoring Soviet activity during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  5. Community Engagement: Ramey Air Force Base played a significant role in the community of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, and many locals still have ties to the base, either through family members who worked there or through the cultural exchanges that took place. The museum offers programs and events that aim to preserve and share this community history.
  6. Ramey’s Modern-Day Legacy: After its closure, the base’s airfield became Rafael Hernández Airport, which is still operational and one of Puerto Rico’s largest airports. The museum addresses the transition from military base to public use and the airport’s importance to the region today.

Visiting the Museum

The Ramey Air Force Base Museum is generally run by a small group of volunteers, often including veterans who once served at the base, making it a passionate community-driven project. Hours of operation may vary, and visits are usually enhanced by guided tours, where volunteers share personal stories and in-depth knowledge about the base’s history.

Photos Les Spearman