McAndrew AFB, NF

McAndrew AFB, located adjacent to Argentia Naval Air Station, was known as Fort McAndrew during World War II. The base provided anti-aircraft artillery protection for the Naval Operating Base and the Naval Air Station. In 1946, the base became part of the US Army Air Force. It was renamed McAndrew AFB in 1948. It was a NEAC major supply center for northern bases and sites. In the spring of 1952, the base became a part of the 64th Air Division (Defense). McAndrew was also temporary home to the 920th AC&W Squadron from July 1952 to September 1954. In 1954, the USAF commenced deactivation in preparation for turnover of the site to the US Navy in 1955.

920th AC&W Squadron

Preliminary work on what would prove to be called NEAC’s (Northeast Air Command) permanent radar system (the Pinetree Line) began on 15 August 1950. ConAC sent a survey party to look at sites in Newfoundland, Labrador and Baffin Island. The USAF authorized the Army Engineers to proceed on 27 March 1951 with design and construction of sites in the approved areas.

While work went ahead on the so-called permanent system, a five station temporary often referred to as lash-up radar net was thrown up. One of these was the 920th AC&W Squadron which was to be assigned to McAndrew Air Base which adjoined the Argentia Naval Station. The Air Force agreed in 1952 to get out of McAndrew on or before 1 July 1955 so it was evident that the 920th AC&W Squadron would operate from McAndrew on a short term basis. The 920th AC&W Squadron arrived at McAndrew AFB in the spring of 1952 and it became operational in July 1952.

The following detail applies to the 920th AC&W Squadron which was located at McAndrew AFB, NF: