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Did you know that Miami – particularly the City of Miami Beach – played a vital role in supporting the U.S. Army Air Forces during the Second World War? From 1942 through 1945, the vibrant tourist destination underwent a dramatic transformation as it became home to a significant military training operation.
The Army Air Forces Technical Training Command took over more than 300 hotels and apartment buildings, converting them into barracks and training facilities for nearly half a million servicemen. This massive influx of military personnel marked a shift from the area's usual tourist activities to a focus on military readiness, with the city government leasing approximately $2 million worth of municipal properties to the war department.
The presence of soldiers significantly impacted local culture as community members rallied to support the troops. Residents created spaces like the Servicemen's Pier, where soldiers could relax, socialize and enjoy time away from their rigorous training.
The transformation of Miami Beach from a leisure destination to a military training ground not only contributed to the American war effort but also left a lasting legacy on the community, marking an important chapter in the history of both the city and the nation.
Courtesy of the Miami-Dade Military Museum and Memorial
Courtesy of the Miami-Dade Military Museum and Memorial
Rosie the Riveter
Who was Rosie the Riveter? She was a cultural icon representing millions of women who took jobs left open by men fighting overseas during World War II.
Women's Land Army
Who were the Women’s Land Army? They were British women from all walks of life who provided critical labor to the agricultural industry, helping to alleviate a food and farm labor shortage during World War II.
Dorothea Lange
Who was Dorothea Lange? She was a photographer and photojournalist who captured Americans during the Great Depression and World War II.
Thursday, April 24, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Miami Beach Regional Library
As Allied troops liberated countries in Europe, people at home and abroad celebrated with parades and music! Join us for a performance of patriotic music by the U.S. Navy Band Southeast Brass Quintet to mark 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe and the 250th anniversary of the Navy and Marine Corps.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
Research the legacy of the Roosevelts in the White House and their continuing impact on contemporary life.
Library of Congress Resources
This page lists resources on the Library of Congress website that will be useful for researchers looking for information about World War II.
Manzanar National Historic Site
Looking for more information about Manzanar National Historic Site? Learn about its history, explore archives and access valuable resources about this historically significant site.
National Archives and Records Administration
The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration provides links to military reference material, military history and research topics.
National Museum of the Pacific War
The National Museum of the Pacific War engages learners with its collection through programs and provides resources for educators.
National Parks Service
Explore how national parks preserve the history of America's experience during World War II – from Pearl Harbor to the war's end – and how a resilient America mobilized its people and parks to triumph over tyranny.
National World War II Museum
The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought and what it means today.
The New York Times
Explore a fascinating and extensive collection of archived World War II-era news articles available through The New York Times, spanning from the beginning of the war in 1939 through its conclusion in 1945.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The Holocaust Memorial Museum offers an extensive collection of online tools and resources for learning about the Holocaust, featuring over 850 articles, videos, podcasts and more.