Warbird Memorial Park
Many of our visitors have been coming to the area since well before 1993 and fondly remember the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base that was located where Market Common now stands, adjacent to the Myrtle Beach International Airport. The base was officially opened in 1954 and closed in 1993. Not only was it a large source of revenue for the area, but many military air shows were held here, including a yearly Sun Fun show by the USAF Thunderbirds. To honor the men and women who served at this base, a small park was originally constructed on Farrow Parkway at the entrance to Market Common several years ago. After a lot of hard work and dedication by local veteran groups and citizens, Warbird Park was officially opened and dedicated to the men and women of the US Air Force and their families who served and lived in our community. For history, military, and airplane enthusiasts the Warbird Park is a must-see during your stay at the beach.
Three Air Force fighter planes that were formerly used at the Myrtle Beach base are on display: an A-10 Warhog, an F-100 Super Sabre, and an A-7D Corsair. The full Static display allows you to walk all around and view them in close proximity. A newly added feature is the World War II Memorial, which is a stunning black granite wall laser-etched with images from the Myrtle Beach Army Air Field, as well as some other locations from the war years that signify our community’s contributions to the war effort. Six flags fly high above six marble benches, representing each branch of the United States Military.
Some other monuments include The Wall of Service, which displays names of men and women who served at the Myrtle Beach Base while it was operational for nearly 40 years. If you knew someone stationed there, make sure to look for their name! There are several plaques and historical markers filled with information about the base and buildings, and if you want to take a drive through the Market Common area, you will see many historic buildings as well. You should recognize some from the pictures on the walls. A beautifully rendered 9/11 memorial has been relocated to the park from its original home at Broadway at the Beach. The park is free, open all day and wheelchair accessible.
