Past reflections, forward projections. . headquarters to host historical presentation - People Planes Places - AIRPAC Historical Foundation; Commander Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet COMNAVAIRPAC - Brief Article

0 Comments | Naval Aviation News, May, 2002 | by Christopher C. Fowler

When Lieutenant Theodore "Spuds" Ellyson arrived at North Island, Calif., in 1911 to be trained as the first Naval Aviator, the fledgling naval air station took its place in Naval Aviation history. Now, some 90 years later, something is being done to salute the men and women who made the choice to "Fly Navy."

Commander Naval Air Forces VAdm. John B. Nathman is spearheading the development and creation of a "historical spotlight" inside the Commander Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMNAVAIRPAC) headquarters building to illuminate Naval Aviation's rich local heritage. "When I relieved VAdm. Bowman as COMNAVAIRPAC, he spoke with me about the idea for this project," Nathman said. "Philosophically, the project resonated with me. Here was a headquarters that has had everything to do with the growth of Naval Aviation, but when I looked around I saw little representation of its rich lineage. I decided that this was an opportunity to not only upgrade the headquarters, but restore its historical value."

The AIRPAC Historical Foundation (AI{F), a nonprofit organization created to promote public awareness of West Coast Naval Aviation, is working closely with Nathmann on the renovation. Project coordinator reserve Cdr. Rich Dann described the completed project as a well-rounded, artful representation of the rich aviation heritage of North Island and the San Diego area.

The project centers on an octagonal quarterdeck with an offshoot to one side for watchstanders. "The entire wall to the right as someone enters the quarterdeck will showcase an 8-foot-by-8-foot painting of Enterprise (CV 6) and three Grumman F3F fighter planes," Dana explained. "The quarterdeck will also feature bronze plaques honoring some of the innovators in Naval Aviation, and a scale model of the Curtiss A-1 Triad, the Navy's first airplane, suspended from the overhead."

The presentation will continue up the double stairway and down the main hallway toward the admiral's office with museum-quality artwork displayed chronologically along the walls depicting various aircraft, people and significant events in the history of Naval Aviation.

"The historical spotlight's overall effect on visitors should be one of quiet dignity," Nathman said. "This is where Naval Aviation, particularly carrier aviation, was forged. I think it is important that anyone who comes into this headquarters gets a sense of the history and purpose that Naval Aviation brings. Today's pilots should understand that the technological advances they enjoy were born of the blood, determination and ingenuity of their predecessors."

The historical upgrade, scheduled to be completed by the building's 82nd anniversary in June, will transform the headquarters into a living, fully operational showcase of some of the people and events that have played a prominent role in shaping Naval Aviation.