Naval Air StationPort Lyautey, Morocco

The following photographs are from the personal collection of Jerry (Gerald J.) Zimmerman who served at NAS Port Lyautey between 8/2/47 to 4/15/48. Copies of these photographs may be obtained in a larger format by contacting Jerry at Jerdadzim@cs.com. Former shipmates of Jerry may also contact him at the same e-mail address.

BASE Change of Command - January 1, 1948

On the morning of November 8, 1942, the United States Navy deployed Army troops and opened fire on Mehdia Beach, the Wadi Sebou River's entrance to Port Lyautey, and the French Air-base. On November 10th, the Destroyer Dallas made its way to the dock of the Air-base, and the United States took over control and command from the French. On the morning of January 1, 1948, the United States officially returned the Base to the French. That day began with a mix of heavy morning rain showers followed by the lowering and lifting of heavy fog. As the program proceeded, the fog was occasionally broken and lightened by diffused sunshine. During the ceremony, little did the US Forces or the French even think that in another eight years the French would, in turn, return the Base and French Morocco back to the native, ruling Arabs. The following pictures were taken by Jerry, and fellow Squadron Photographer, Lyles. Lyles shot from the roof top of the Hangar, and Jerry from ground level. Fortunately Jerry decided to hold on to some of the early proof prints of the event and was able to restore the following ones for this collection.

American and French Honor Guard preparing to muster

Captain Dudley (left) and Admiral Henderson (right) on their way to the January 1, 1948 event.

American and French officers greeting each other

Preparing to start the change of command ceremonies

Rear Admiral Henderson reviewing French Navy Honor Guard

French Admiral accepting the return of the base to the French Government

Rear Admiral Henderson commenting on the transfer of Port Lyautey back to the French Government

Formation of American and French Navy personnel

Old Glory preparing to be lowered

Old Glory lowered and the French Flag being prepared to be raised. Jerry Zimmerman can be seen on one knee, reloading his camera and preparing for a close up shot of the historical moment. The picture was taken by Lyle's, the Squadron photographer.

The French Flag raised, marking the official return of the Port Lyautey base to French control, January 1, 1948