BOCA RATON AND WORLD WAR II , HOW IT CHANGED PARADISE
The homefront to many people the "War" was over there and not on our beautiful shores.
Submarine warfare was off the coast of Boca raton and reports that German submarines
patrolled the coast line from Jacksonville to Pompano Beach ,Florida per Major James J.Weldon,
the oil tanker "LUBRAFOL " was hit by the enemy and sank with a full tank of fuel, as well as were
cargo ships .
Complete blackouts at night were put in place.
Local townspeople were volunteers for the Aircraft Warning Service , where there was a watch tower at the beach.
They were awarded the FIGHTER COMMAND CERTIFICATE for their service to their government.
Mentioning the word RADAR was a punishable offense and by a court martial.
By March of 1944 there were 94 planes and 3 airstrips 5,200 feet long.
There were more than 800 military buildings, some are still evident today around town.
BOCA RATON AND WORLD WAR II , HOW IT CHANGED PARADISE
Some of the buildings and parts of the airstrip are on the grounds of FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY.
The local towns people were not ready for such an influx of military personnel.
The third Air Force Band came to town on September 22, 1942 with band members from such great bands as
Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Rudy Valle etc.
Everyone had a chance to enjoy their music and danced the night away.
Eventually, the War was over and troops started leaving Boca Raton, some returned to live here and still
remain in Boca Raton to this day.
Boca Raton is very proud to be part of this chapter in American History.
It was at this point that Boca Raton was put on the map and started to grow.
Our vision of future growth continues.
BOCA RATON AND WORLD WAR II , HOW IT CHANGED PARADISE
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