September 1943
October 19, 1943
Justin Taylan, 2006
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Location
Located south of Renard Sound on Banika Island. Located to the north-west is Sunlight Filed (North Field).
Construction
After the American landing on February 21, 1943, US Navy Seabees began constructing a single runway. Initially, the single crushed coral surfaced runway was 3,100' long and completed in early June. Later, the strip was expanded to 5,300' x 200' with extensive revetment areas to each side.
American Usage
Completed in June, it was used for fighter aircraft only. On June 5, 1943 COMAIRSOL conducted its first daylight raid on Buin/Kahili since February 1943. Returning from the mission, several Allied fighters landed on the new strip. By July 1945, the strip was expanded to 6,300', and was scheduled for closure.
American Units based at North & South Fields
42nd BG, 75th BS (B-25) Guad Oct 21, 43 - Jan 20, 44 Stirling
42nd BG, HQ, 390th BS (B-25) Guad Oct 22, 43 - Aug 7, 44 Hollandia
42nd BG, 69th BS (B-25) Plaines Des Gaiacs Nov 10, 43 - Feb 19, 44
347th FG, 67th FS (P-39,P-38) Woodlark Jan 23 - Aug 15, 44 Middleburg
Today
Still in use today by weekly flights for Solomon Airlines.
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January 1945
July 1945
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