Louisiana State Society
Daughters of the American Revolution

The Story of Gerstner Field

Gerstner Field served as a major training base for pilots during World War I. Gerstner Field’s role in training military pilots was unique in that it provided comprehensive training that combined flight courses, advanced flight training and gunnery courses. This was the first time all elements of training were housed in one location.

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The Need for Better Training
While the United States was the first country in the world to build an airplane solely for military use, the country was still lacking in its ability to effectively use aircraft in the war. There were only 1,200 men, and only eight of the 300 planes could fly due to others being grounded for repairs. In preparing for World War I, hundreds of additional planes were ordered; but they lacked pilots to fly them. At that time, there were only three pilot training schools, and they were very slow in turning out pilots. The search was on for a better way to train pilots to serve our country.

Why Lake Charles?
The city and parish understood there was an opportunity in Lake Charles. Conducive year-round flying weather and flat, even land for runways were prominent. Energized support from business and civic leaders and the general population existed. Lake Charles had been trying for years to lure a military base, but the area was deemed too flat to train foot soldiers. However, for training pilots, the area was found to be ideal.

Building Gerstner Field

Gerstner Field construction began in August 1917 and cost approximately $2 million. There were over 4,000 construction jobs created for this project alone. The base included 24 hangars, 90 support buildings and a rail connection to central Lake Charles.
 

Military Activity at Gerstner Field

Troops began arriving in November 1917. Over 3,000 military personnel passed through Gerstner Field.  Almost 500 fighter pilots and instructors were trained. Some of those trained became famous as early aviation pioneers.

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Famous Aviators serving at Gerstner Field included:

• General Jimmy Doolittle

• General Claire Lee Chennault

• Captain Ernest Harmon

• Major John Mitchel (former New York City mayor)

• Captain Maxwell Kirby (credited with downing the last enemy airplane in World War I)

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​Aviation Firsts at Gerstner Field

Gerstner Field was home to several milestones in aviation history:

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1. First military airfield in Louisiana

2. First flight ambulance

3. First aerial gunnery school to use floating targets

4. First use of wireless air-to-ground communications, allowing pilots to talk with each other and with the ground

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The End of Gerstner Field

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On November 11, 1918, World War I ended with an armistice, which left no need for facilities like Gerstner Field. It died quietly without fanfare. However, it left an indelible imprint on the community. The land once occupied by the airfield is now privately owned. The only nod to the airfield is a highway marker near the former location. The history is buried in the archives at McNeese State University and in the stories shared by Adley Cormier.