Consider this a gateway to naval aviation history. Welcome to the Naval Air Station North Island Historic District. It stands as a testament to innovation and courage.
Naval Air Station North Island celebrated its centennial on November 11 2017. It marked 100 years of Naval Aviation. This base is the Birthplace of Naval Aviation. The House Armed Services Committee gave it official recognition on August 15 1963.
But how did Naval Air Station North Island get that name? Coronado was once two islands. North Island was desolate. South Island had the Hotel del Coronado. In 1910 the US Army claimed North Island for aviation training. Later the Navy made it an operating airfield.
Training at Naval Air Station North Island began in 1911. Theodore Ellyson was the first Naval Aviator. The Wright Brothers achieved their miracle of flight in 1903. Just seven years later aviators arrived in Coronado. In January 1911 Lt Theodore Ellyson began flight instruction. He trained at the Curtiss Aviation School on North Island. Ellyson became Naval Aviator Number 1.
Glenn Curtiss built the first hydroplane. He also created the first landplane to take off from a ship. Curtiss wanted the war department to buy his aircraft. He offered free flying lessons to future pilots. They only needed to buy the planes. Curtiss used North Island for his flight school. These pioneers paved the way for future aviation. Their courage and service helped test science. They wrote flight manuals for every aircraft. This ensured future aviators knew what to do in an emergency. Aviation in the Armed Forces has seen many discoveries. These include seaplanes props jet engines and helicopters. Some personnel even flew in NASA projects. It all started in North Carolina and Southern California. Brilliant minds made it all possible.
From 1912 to 1928 flights and aircraft evolved. Seaplanes became aircraft that could do acrobatics. Aviation as a whole was changing. With the onset of war Naval Air Station North Island became one of the largest US bases. It served the Pacific fleet.
Over the years Naval Air Station North Island has seen many aviation firsts. Glenn Martin an unknown aircraft builder back then built the first pusher aircraft. He demonstrated it here in San Diego. This flight included the first parachute jump in San Diego. A 90 lb woman named Tiny Broadwick performed it.
Naval Air Station North Island held a family friendly event. It celebrated 100 years of aviation. There were food trucks bounce houses and zip lines. Many military organizations supporting military families had booths. VRC-30 the Providers had a C-2 static. HSM-35 Magicians displayed their H-60 painted beautifully. There was also an F-18 painted for the centennial celebration. Fleet Weather Center San Diego reported sunny skies with a nice breeze.
Fleet Combat Camera Pacific showed the equipment they use. This included underwater and land cameras plus drones. Mass Communication Specialists shoot footage for major broadcast agencies. They let visitors try on some gear. MCs are dive and shooting qualified. They are current on their equipment. The Defense Logistics Agency was also represented. It has over 25000 employees supporting weapon systems. It also manages nine supply chains. It supports federal agencies and humanitarian relief efforts.
Another highlight was the Take Me Home Huey helicopter. Steve Maloney’s sculpture is of an H-1 Huey. It transported soldiers in Vietnam. It also served as a medical evacuation transport. The Huey represents the journey military men and women face. They transform back into who they once were. Steve Maloney works with Light Horse Legacy. This nonprofit encourages veterans to get treatment. The artist rescued an old UH-1 from the bone yard. He made it into a beautiful piece of art.
Naval Air Station North Island has a rich history. It has shaped naval aviation. It continues to inspire future generations. Remember the dedication and sacrifice of those who served here. Their legacy lives on in every flight.