Leo Wattimena Airport

The island was recaptured on 15 September 1944 during the Battle of Morotai by the 31st Infantry Division, meeting only light opposition.

General MacArthur and Rear Admiral Barbey landed on the day of the invasion to make an inspection.

[citation needed] After the war, the island was one of the largest Fifth Air Force aircraft reclamation centers in the Pacific.

[citation needed] During the buildup in preparation of Operation Trikora in early 1962, the Indonesian Air Force utilized Morotai airfield as one of the frontline airbases.

[7] This article incorporates public domain material from the Air Force Historical Research Agency

Boeing SB-17G "Ready Teddy," Morotai Island, 1945 (Courtesy of the City of Coffs Harbour, Accession Number mus07-8837).
Aerial view of Pitu (left) and Wama (right) airfields in 1945