Story by Richard Sandoval – #thewaywetravel

Established in 1918 as March Field, the base played a pivotal role in the development of military aviation throughout the 20th century .

On a warm July afternoon, we set out with our cameras on a mission to explore the March Field Air Museum. From standing beneath towering fighter jets to discovering a fascinating NASA exhibit, every corner offered something unforgettable. The museum also features powerful, thought provoking displays that reflect the harsh realities of war and its lasting impact on humanity. Without a doubt, this museum stands as one of the Inland region’s true cultural treasures.

Exclusive photos by Richard Sandoval

Located just off the 215 Freeway in Riverside, California, the March Field Air Museum sits on one of the oldest operational airfields in the United States. Established in 1918 as March Field, the base played a pivotal role in the development of military aviation throughout the 20th century. Today, the museum preserves that rich legacy with an impressive collection of more than 80 aircraft and aviation artifacts that span decades of history.

Walking the museum grounds, you’ll find yourself surrounded by massive aircraft that seem to reach out and tell their stories from World War I biplanes to Cold War-era bombers and modern day jets. The outdoor flight line is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Each plane represents a chapter in our nation’s defense history, with accompanying placards sharing technical details and the human stories behind the machines.

Inside the museum, the exhibits offer immersive glimpses into the evolution of military flight. One of the highlights is the Aztec Eagles (Águilas Aztecas) exhibit, which tells the powerful and often overlooked story of the 201st Mexican Fighter Squadron. During World War II, these brave pilots from Mexico joined Allied forces and flew combat missions alongside the U.S. Army Air Forces in the Pacific theater. This historic collaboration between the United States and Mexico symbolizes international solidarity and shared sacrifice, and the exhibit honors their courage and legacy with uniforms, photographs, and personal artifacts.

Another section that draws deep reflection is the Vietnam War exhibit. Featuring a hauntingly realistic diorama of a jungle scene complete with a Huey helicopter, the exhibit captures both the atmosphere of the battlefield and the emotional toll of the war. You’ll find detailed panels explaining the progression of the conflict, the role of the U.S. Air Force, and the human experiences of soldiers and pilots. Personal letters, photographs, and gear donated by veterans bring history vividly to life — not just as events in a textbook but as moments that impacted thousands of families across America.

The museum’s space exploration display also reminds us that the story of flight doesn’t end in the atmosphere. Items connected to NASA and the shuttle program speak to humankind’s quest to reach the stars and the role March Field’s personnel played in supporting those missions.

What makes March Field Air Museum truly exceptional is its ability to connect the past with the present. Veterans often volunteer as docents, sharing personal stories and adding a powerful, human element to the history on display. Their insights transform a museum visit into something much deeper a living tribute to service, sacrifice, and innovation.

The museum also hosts community events throughout the year, including educational programs for students, restoration workshops, and seasonal family activities. It’s more than just a museum it’s a vibrant space for learning, honoring, and imagining the future.

Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or just curious about our nation’s military and aerospace history, March Field Air Museum offers a rich and meaningful experience for visitors of all ages.

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