From 1942 to 1997 Naval Station Treasure Island was a bustling hub. It was a vital US Navy facility on Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay. The base played a crucial role during World War II. It served as a training center for electronics and radio communications. It was also the main departure and receiving point for sailors heading to the Pacific.
Naval Station Treasure Island housed Hangars 2 and 3. These were used for airships blimps dirigibles planes and seaplanes. Seaplanes landed in Trade Winds Harbor. Rear Admiral Hugo Wilson Osterhaus was honored for his work. A square in front of the Administration Building was named after him.
On December 9 1945 three theaters were dedicated to war heroes. Theatre One honored Doris Miller the first African American awarded the Navy Cross. Theatre Two was for Edward O’Hare a Medal of Honor recipient. Theatre Three honored Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone. The dedication was broadcast nationwide on Orson Welles’ radio show.
After the war a nuclear decontamination training center opened. A full-size mockup of a navy ship the USS Pandemonium was built. Radioactive materials were used for training. The Pandemonium remained in use until 1969. It was demolished in 1996.
During the 1960s and 1980s the base was used for shipboard fire fighting training. The USS Buttercup a damage control trainer was there. Helicopter landing was limited to the Naval Airship Square. Treasure Island also served as a boot camp for naval reservists. It was also the location for Electronics Technician training until 1974.
In 1996 the base closed. The property was transferred to other agencies. The city redeveloped the island. Disputes arose over the land’s value. Environmental concerns remain due to contamination from past activities. The legacy of Naval Station Treasure Island is complex a blend of crucial wartime service innovative training and enduring environmental challenges.