Dining Hall

July 23, 2021 | by Jim Petersen

Then & Now

Building 2515 was the airmen’s dining hall, one of many mess halls on the base. This one was built in 1945, covers 9,585 square feet, and had a capacity of 500 persons. It is a “T” shaped building and has concrete floors with wood walls and siding. In 1961, this building was divided to serve both officers (2,000 sq ft) and airmen (7,000 sq. ft.) but has since gone back to the original configuration.

Restoration Details

The original concrete floor was tiled but will be restored to concrete.

There was only one original restroom; a women’s restroom will be added

The drop ceiling will be removed to expose the original truss network.

Continued Story

This building served during the war and perhaps more after WW II as many of the other mess halls were decommissioned and taken down. It was used in the 60’s by groups such as the F-102 fighter squadron and in the 70’s and 80’s by Utah National Guard groups that came to Wendover for annual training exercises. The Red Flag USAF exercises in the late 80’s used the building and recently the Utah and Nevada Civil Air Patrol wings have utilized the structure along with groups from Hill AFB like the 729th ACS.

The remaining tiles on the dining floor need to be removed, the concrete ground level and then an epoxy floor covering applied. A similar repair to the kitchen floor needs to be done. The false ceiling will be removed and all the original fiberboard panels. The building will be insulated then sheetrocked for better fire protection. A new exterior roof needs to be installed along with the remaining failing windows. Reconfiguration of the restroom is needed to add a women’s side and the plumbing needs repairs. Windows and siding on the east side need attention. Additional electrical outlets are needed along with some original lighting. The kitchen hoods need to be restored, new kitchen equipment is needed and the pantry area needs a makeover.

Overall, this is a fairly major project with all the various details, however, the building is a very useful addition to both the museum and to potential military and civilian airport events.