Considering the use of aircraft during WWI the U.S. military became worried about the vulnerability of the Panama Canal. Using the canal reduced the time needed to move USN ships from coast to coast by weeks. In 1928 the U.S. Congress authorized funds to build a new airfield to protect the canal. Actual work began in 1930 and the new Albrook Field was commissioned in April, 1932. The 16th Pursuit Group, comprised of the 24th, 29th, 74th, and 79th Pursuit Squadrons, was stationed there.