/NavyCentennial

Official Commemorat

i v e E v e n t s P ro g r a m

1 0 1 2 , 0 3 JULY 28

Celebrating 100 years of Naval aviation and innovation

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES & WHIDBEY CROSSWIND

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Welcome!

Centennial of Naval Aviation 1911-2011

On behalf of Team Whidbey, Welcome Aboard!

P

acific Northwest Neighbors We’re glad you’re here today to help us celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation. This extraordinary milestone gives the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard an opportunity to commemorate the unique contributions naval aviation has made to our national security.

Naval aviation has been at the cutting edge of aerospace expeditions, from the first successful crossing of the Atlantic by an aircraft, to exploration of the Arctic and Antarctic, to journeys of discovery into space.

Capt. Christopher Shay Commander Electronic Attack Wing

Capt. Peter Garvin Commander Patrol & Reconnaissance Wing 10

Col. Bradley Close Commanding Officer Marine Aviation Support Training Group 53

Capt. Susan Lichtenstein Commanding Officer Naval Hospital Oak Harbor

Capt. Jay Johnston

We’re proud that NAS Whidbey Island’s 69 years here in Washington have played a vital role in the Navy’s success. Today, much of our naval aviation heritage is parked side-byside on the ramp – from seaplanes to jets.

Take time to meet the men and women who are serving our country today and listen to Tales of Naval Aviation from our own hometown heroes.

Enjoy your stay and have a safe drive home.

Capt. Jay Johnston Commanding Officer, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island

Carrier On. 100 years of Naval Aviation and still flying strong. Thank you.

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Official Commemorative Event Program

Contents: Welcome........................2 Schedule of events..........3 100 years of naval aviation.............4 The birth of naval aviation.............5 Tales of Naval Aviation ..........6 Kids Zone activities.......7 Memories of a Master Chief..........10 Whidbey Island's role in naval aviation....12 Historical stitchery ......14 Directions & FAQ's .....15

General schedule of events Thursday, July 28

Saturday, July 30

Friday, July 29

9 a.m. - 5K Flightline Run: Open to the public. $40 registration fee, must sign up at least one hour prior to start time. Call 257-6438 or 257-9018

9 a.m. - Golf Tournament at Gallery Golf Course: Open to the public. $60 per person. Call 257-2178 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Admiral Nimitz Hall Luncheon: Open to active duty, retirees, reservists and family members, as well as base civilian personnel. $4.25 per person. Call 257-2711 3 p.m. - All-Hands Reception and BBQ at Chief Petty Officers’ Club on Ault Field Road. Advance tickets $15; $20 at the door. Call 257-2891 3 p.m. - Commanding Officer’s Reception and BBQ at Officers’ Club on NAS Whidbey Island. Advance tickets $15; $20 at the door. Call 2572521

8 a.m. - Gates open for Flightline run via Hoffman Road and Banta Road/ Hammer Gate.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Fly-In at Ault Field: Free admission and open to the public; featuring Tales of Naval Aviation, vintage and modern aircraft displays, search and rescue demonstrations, car show, concessions, memorabilia, Kids Zone children activities and more.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Fly-In at Seaplane Base: Free admission and open to the public; featuring vintage aircraft, PBY Catalina; Command display, military demonstrations; search and rescue demonstrations, car show and more.

"Speak softly and carry a big stick" - President Theodore Roosevelt

NAVAL AVIATION

A century of service and counting

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Centennial of Naval Aviation 1911-2011

100 years of naval aviation KATHY REED | WHIDBEY CROSSWIND

pilots helped propel it to what many would say was its defining moment, its coming of age — the Battle of Midway in World War II. The battle marked a turning point in the war and proved the value of aircraft launched from ships. That show of force holds true today.

I

f Eugene Ely hadn’t been the first aviator to fly an airplane off a ship in 1910, someone else would have done it.

Naval aviation was the inevitable consequence of man’s invention of the airplane. “As planes came to the foreground and we looked at the ability of the U.S. Navy to place our ships anywhere, naval aviation was just a natural extension of that,� said Capt. Jay Johnston, commanding officer of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. “When you think about it, the mobility of being able to place ships at various locations around the world, it just makes sense.�

You might say Capt. Johnston, who has been in the Navy 26 years, has more than 5,000 flight hours under his belt and has flown 236 combat missions, knows a little something about naval aviation. The 37th commanding officer of NAS Whidbey sat down with the Whidbey Crosswind earlier this month to discuss the evolution of naval aviation, NAS Whidbey Island’s role in it over the past 69 years and naval aviation’s future. “Naval aviation was a neat idea in 1911, now it’s the primary arm of the Navy,� said Johnston. “Everything centers around aviation; now naval aviation is the largest command (in the Navy). The officer corps has 13,000 members, which is significantly higher than the submarines or ships. Virtually everyone who deploys today deploys to support naval aviation.�

Ely’s successful takeoff from the deck of the USS Birmingham (CL-2) while it was at anchor in Hampton Roads, Va., on Nov. 14, 1910, supported the notion it was possible to merge flight with a floating Navy. Less than a month after Ely’s harrowing, but successful, takeoff (see sidebar), Lt. T. Gordon “Spuds� Ellyson was

“You can drive a carrier into a region and change the balance of power and never launch a single aircraft,� said Johnston. “A carrier just has to be there as a show of force — it’s a deterrent.�

Eugene Ely's first takeoff from a makeshift platform on the deck of the USS Birmingham on Nov. 14, 1910. U.S. Navy File photo

ordered to report to the Glenn Curtiss Aviation Camp at North Island, San Diego, Calif. He completed his flight training in April, 1911, making him Naval Aviator No. 1.

How times have changed. There is probably no comparison to the 50-hp Curtiss pusher biplane that made those historic first flights 100 years ago to today’s cutting-edge EA-18G Growler, except perhaps that they can both fly.

Since its commissioning on Sept. 21, 1942, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island has played a significant role in naval aviation. The F4F Wildcats were the first aircraft to come aboard in 1942, followed by the F6F Hellcats and the PV-1 Venturas. By 1944, the predominant aircraft at Ault Field was the SBD Dauntless dive-bombers, while the PBY Catalina and PBM Mariner seaplanes called the Seaplane Base home. A long list of other aircraft have CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

“Today you fly in a Growler and it’s like you’re flying in a computer. You can’t even imagine the new technology,� said Johnston, whose sentimental favorite aircraft is the A-4 Skyhawk, while his professional favorite would be the EA-6B Prowler. Of course, in true naval aviator style, it’s hard to pick a favorite. “I like the Intruder, too,� he said. “Heck, I like ‘em all. I can’t believe they pay me to fly these things.�

Defining moment

Johnston’s sentiment echoes that of thousands of Navy pilots over the years. From Ellyson on, naval aviation blossomed and the spirit of its

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Capt. Jay Johnston, commanding officer of NAS Whidbey Island, stands next to photos commemorating the commissioning of the base in 1942. Kathy Reed/Whidbey Crosswind

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Official Commemorative Event Program

The birth of naval aviation KATHY REED | WHIDBEY CROSSWIND

One can’t talk about the birth of naval aviation without talking about Eugene Burton Ely, the man credited with making the first shipboard takeoff and landing.

Retired Navy Cmdr. Bob Coolbaugh, pilots his replica Ely-Curtiss Pusher aircraft on board Naval Station Norfolk, as part of a ceremony to commemorate 100 years of naval aviation on Nov. 12, 2010. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Richard J. Stevens/Released

flown in and out of the picture over the years. “This base started with the PBY and has worked its way through the whole evolution ... we’ve had them all over time, and that has resulted in a large run,� Johnston said. “Whidbey Island has developed into an integral part of the air space system in this sector.�

Johnston cites the nearby location of carriers at Naval Base Kitsap and Naval Station Everett as well as the nearby Naval Magazine Indian Island as part of NASWI’s strategic position. “Our location is critical,� he said. “That’s why the P-3’s are here. We possess some of the most valuable training ranges. The airspace is valuable.�

Looking to the future

Johnston is nearly one year into his three-year turn at the helm of NAS Whidbey. He said being the commanding officer has made him look past his current tour of duty and at the distant horizon, at what the future will bring to this naval air station. As one might imagine, the biggest challenge is a familiar one. “The biggest challenge now is the budget, just like the rest of the country,� he said. “We have to watch what we spend and still get the job done, so I’m very conscious of how we

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spend the money. I analyze and justify everything.�

Johnston said he thinks the future will bring the branches of the nation’s Armed Forces together, ushering in more joint forces, as our military finds more efficient ways to operate. “We’ll continue to modify how we do things,� said Johnston. “We’ve got tried and true technologies, like the Nimitz-class carriers with catapults, and we’ll continue to build on those technologies.�

Ely was born in 1879 in Williamsburg, Iowa. He was raised in Davenport, Iowa and attended Iowa State University, graduating in 1904. In 1910, Ely and his wife, Mabel, moved to Eugene Burton Ely Portland, Ore., where he worked as a salesman for E.Henry Wemme. Wemme purchased one of Glenn Curtiss’ first four-cylinder SEE ELY, PAGE 11

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Centennial of Naval Aviation 1911-2011

Tales of naval aviation

Hometown heroes take center stage during centennial event

A

s one of the premiere events during the Heritage Fly-In celebrating 100 years of naval aviation, NAS Whidbey Island presents its own “Hometown Heroes” on the Tales of Naval Aviation stage located in Hangar 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.

10:30 a.m.

Col. Ralph Wetterhahn is a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot who served combat tours during the Vietnam War with both the Air Force and the Navy. He is widely read in Air & Space Smithsonian, Col. Ralph and Popular Science and Wetterhahn is the author of The Last Flight of Bomber 31- Harrowing Tales of American and Japanese Pilots Who Fought in World War II’s Arctic Air Campaign.

Congratulations to our Navy community on this great centennial occasion!

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11:15 a.m.

Cmdr. Harry Ferrier flew into battle on June 4, 1942 as a 17-year old radioman/ gunner with Torpedo Squadron 8 in a Grumman TBF-1 Avenger and was one of the few who Cmdr. Harry returned from the tideturning Battle of Midway. Ferrier Ferrier retired from 30 years in the Navy after serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

12 p.m.

Former NAS Whidbey Island Commanding Officer (Jan. 1994-Jan. 1996) and author, Capt. John Schork graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and went on to spend 26 years in Naval Aviation, where Capt. John he logged over 4,000 Schork flight hours and 1000 carrier landings in the A-6 Intruder. During his active duty service, he commanded Attack Squadron VA-95 Green Lizards aboard USS Enterprise.

12:45 p.m.

Capt. Walt Spangenberg’s 30-year Navy aviation career began in Korea flying the F4U Corsair, followed by tours of duty Capt. Walt in the F9F2 Panther, FJ3 Spangenberg

To our heroes - Superb Naval aviators and the extraordinary men and women who support them in our defense. We are inspired by your efforts and grateful for your sacrifice..

Congratulations on 100 years of Naval Aviation!

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Fury, conducting missile tests in the FJ4 and A-4 Skyhawk, as a test pilot for the E-2 Hawkeye, P-3 Orion and A-5 Vigilante. He was also involved with the early development of the EA-6B Prowler. He’ll be talking about the challenges of landing on “straight deck” carriers.

1:30 p.m.

Author of the classic flying tale, "Flight of the Intruder," Stephen Coonts received his Navy wings in 1969. He flew the A-6 Intruder with Attack Squadron VA-196 Main Battery, making two combat cruises aboard the USS Enterprise Stephen Coonts during the final years of the Vietnam War. After the war, he served as an A-6 flight instructor for two years followed by a tour as assistant catapult and arresting gear officer on the USS Nimitz (CVN 68).

2:15 p.m.

Rear Adm. Lyle F. Bull’s distinguished aviation career began as a bombardier/navigator in the A-3 Skywarrior followed quickly by a transition to the A-6 Intruder. From 1967-1970, Bull flew 237 Vietnam combat missions Rear Adm. from the decks of the USS Lyle F. Bull Constellation (CV 64) and USS Ranger (CV 61). He commanded Attack Squadron VA-196 Main Battery, VA-128 Golden Intruders (west coast A-6 replace-

CELEBRATING 100 years of Naval Aviation Thank you Oak Harbor for your 70 years in support of our mission INTRUDER

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Official Commemorative Event Program ment squadron), USS San Jose (AFS 7), the aircraft carrier USS Constellation and Carrier Group 7. A Port Byron, Ill., native, Bull received his commission in 1960.

3 p.m.

Cory Graff is the Flying Heritage Collection's Military Aviation Curator.

Before coming to FHC, Graff worked at Seattle's Museum of Flight as an exhibits developer and assistant curator for military Cory Graff collections. Graff is the author of seven books on aviation history subjects including Strike and Return: American Airpower and the Fight for Iwo Jima and Clear the Deck! Naval Aviation Accidents of World War II. He will be featuring The Navy in Puget Sound, published by Arcadia Publishing.

3:45 p.m.

Vice Adm. James Zortman’s distinguished aviation career began as a Bombardier/Navigator in the A-6 Intruder. He commanded Medium Attack Warfare School, Attack Squadron VA-52 Knight- Vice Adm. riders, Carrier Air Wing James Zortman 17 aboard USS Enterprise and Carrier Group 7 and the USS John C. Stennis Battle Group in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. A native of Onawa, Iowa and 1973 graduate of U.S. Naval Academy, Zortman’s final assignment was Commander, Naval Air Forces in San Diego.

Children of all ages will have two opportunities to see the Flying Gizmo show during the centennial fly-in event. Photo Courtesy of the Seattle Museum of Flight

Kids Zone features fun for all ages There will be no shortage of activities and entertainment for children at the Centennial of Naval Aviation Fly-In Saturday.

The Seattle Museum of Flight will present its Flying Gizmo show at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Haviland Hangar on NAS Whidbey Island. The program is designed to help children discover the science and history of flight through the use of flying toys and models.

Washington’s largest traveling wildlife exhibit, Predators of the Heart, will also be there with reptiles, birds and other furry, four-legged creatures. Shows will take place at 11:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m., also in Haviland Hangar.

From noon to 3 p.m. there will be clowns and jugglers to entertain children and adults alike. Face painting will also be available.

Demonstrations & Splash Downs: NAS Whidbey Island's Search and Rescue will perform demonstrations during the Centennial of Naval Aviation event.

SAR will demonstrate a land rescue at 11 a.m. on the Ault Field Base.

An over water rescue will be demonstrated at noon at the Seaplane Base.

A PBY Catalina will splash down in Crescent Harbor at 2 p.m.

“ Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.

We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” - President Ronald Reagan

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From the early years of flight, Naval Aviation has played a critical and enduring role in protecting freedom around the world. And Boeing is honored that we’ve been part of this great legacy for more than nine decades. We proudly salute the generations of men and women whose commitment, expertise and service have made Naval Aviation all that it is today and will be tomorrow.

Photo courtesy of Naval History and Heritage Command

From the early years of flight, Naval Aviation has played a critical and enduring role in protecting freedom around the world. And Boeing is honored that we’ve been part of this great legacy for more than nine decades. We proudly salute the generations of men and women whose commitment, expertise and service have made Naval Aviation all that it is today and will be tomorrow.

Photo courtesy of Naval History and Heritage Command

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Centennial of Naval Aviation 1911-2011

Memories of a Master Chief JUSTIN BURNETT | WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES

A know.

t 88, Oak Harbor resident Dick Hayden has forgotten more about Navy aviation than most will ever

That's what happens when you spend nearly 30 years working on and in Navy aircraft, from droning "recips" (as in reciprocal propeller driven planes) to roaring jets designed to carry nuclear weapons.

Hayden, a veteran of World War II and Korea, was first assigned to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in 1948. He proudly recounts he was the first master chief ever to serve at the airbase.

It's no surprise, considering his war record.

Before reporting to NAS Whidbey, Hayden was aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-8) when Lt. Col. James "Jimmy" Doolittle and his raiders took off on their famous and daring 1942 bombing run.

"We hauled them to Japan," Hayden said.

He was also on the same ship just six months

later when it was sunk during the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands. After enduring waves of attacking Japanese bombers, the ship was listing badly and the order was given to abandon ship.

"I didn't have any shoes and my dungarees were shredded. I was in pretty bad shape," Hayden said, with a chuckle.

Describing what happened next, his smile faded and was soon replaced with tears.

Hayden and the rest of the crew spent the better part of two hours trying to dodge strafing runs by Japanese fighter pilots and find patches of water free of diesel fuel and engine oil.

"I was pretty scared," he said.

They were eventually rescued by a battleship and Hayden went on to serve out a long and distinguished Navy career, much of which was spent on Whidbey Island. They were also the best years, he said.

Arriving for the first time with his wife Jean, they encountered a small waterfront community with a sign at the edge of town that

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Dick Hayden, a retired Navy master chief, describes being strafed by Japanese fighter pilots during Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands in World War II. Justin Burnett/Whidbey News-Times

said, "Welcome to Oak Harbor, population 440." For Hayden, who grew up on a small farm in Iowa, it was the perfect place; cozy yet buzzing with military importance.

Unlike many air bases across the country, which were being decommissioned following World War II, NAS Whidbey Island had been deemed too valuable to close. In fact, its runways were expanded to meet new Navy standards and the airbase began to grow.

Hayden would witness many changes at NAS Whidbey over his career. The biggest came SEE HAYDEN, PAGE 14

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11

Official Commemorative Event Program

Aircraft on display:

ELY, FROM PAGE 5

biplanes, also aquiring the first franchise in the Pacific Northwest.

Even though Wemme owned the plane, he couldn’t fly it. Ely volunteered to do so, but wound up crashing the plane instead. Ely bought the wreck from Wemme, repairing it over the next few months and learning to fly it properly.

Ely flew the plane extensively in the Portland area, and wound up moving to Minneapolis, Minn. and working for Curtiss. Ely got his Aero Club of America pilot’s license (no. 17) in October, 1910.

That same month, Ely and Curtiss met Capt. Washington Chambers, who had been appointed by the secretary of the Navy, George von Lengerke Meyer, to investigate military uses for aviation within the Navy. Chambers was impressed with Ely’s technical abilities.

When Ely heard of Chambers’ interest in having a plane fly from a ship, Ely volunteered to try it.

A temporary platform was erected over the foredeck of the scout cruiser USS Birmingham (CL-2) at the Norfolk Navy Yard in Virgina. Ely’s plane was lifted onboard by a floating crane, and the Birmingham steamed down the Elizabeth River to Hampton Roads. On Nov. 14, 1910, Ely’s plane cleared the runway and plunged downward, its wheels brushing the water’s surface before pulling up.

The contact with the water damaged the plane’s propeller and the plane vibrated heavily as it climbed. Ely knew he had to touch down quickly and landed on Willoughby Spit nearby.

While this takeoff was considered

Congratulations on 100 years!

FROM

Eugene Ely's first landing on the deck of the USS Pennysylvania, Jan. 18, 1911.

U.S. Navy File photo

something of a stunt, it received much publicity. Two months later, on Jan. 18, 1911, Ely was on the opposite side of the country, in San Francisco Bay, where he landed on the deck of the armored cruiser, USS Pennsylvania (ACR-4), the first successful shipboard landing of an aircraft, and the first ever using a tailhook system, which was designed and built by circus performer and aviator, Hugh Robinson. Less than an hour later, Ely took off from the Pennsylvania and returned to Selfridge Field.

Naval aviation was born.

Although Ely contacted the U.S. Navy and requested employment, naval aviation wasn’t well organized as yet, so Ely continued to fly in exhibitions while waiting for more of the Navy’s flying stations to become operational. While flying an exhibition in Macon, Ga. on Oct. 19, 1911, Ely’s plane pulled out of a dive too late, and crashed. Ely jumped clear of the wreckage, but his neck was broken and he died moments later.

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Congratulations of 100 Years of Naval Aviation

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Centennial of Naval Aviation 1911-2011

Whidbey Island's role in naval aviation JUSTIN BURNETT | WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES

W

hidbey Island Naval Air Station was created with one main purpose in mind: to provide Navy patrol planes with a location to re-arm and refuel should they be called on to defend Puget Sound.

The plan, first hatched by Office of the Chief of Naval Operations about one year before the United States entered World War II, went into high gear following the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

The government quickly gobbled up about 20 farms in Clover Valley — 4,325 acres total — and construction of Ault Field was in full swing by the summer of 1942. By early fall, Sept. 21, a ceremony attended by 212 people marked the base’s official commission.

A lot has changed over the past 69 years. The airbase now boasts about 10,000 Navy and civilian personnel and has transitioned from vintage propellor-driven seaplanes to screamingly fast jets loaded with cutting edge technology.

Its service members have trained for countless hours in more than 30 aircraft and have participated in conflicts, wars and humanitarian efforts all over the world. With such a rich his-

Naval Air Station Whidbey Island

tory, NAS Whidbey Island has earned a place of distinction in the Navy’s centennial celebration of aviation.

The beginning

In that first year, several historic aircraft arrived to call Oak Harbor home. The first were squadrons of F4F Wildcats, a carrier-based fighter that was also used by the British Royal Navy.

Beginning service in 1940, the plane was capable of speeds up to 320 mph and was the only effective fighter available F4F Wildcat to the US Navy and Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during the early part of WWII. The F6F Hellcat, a faster, more maneuverable aircraft with a top speed of 380 mph, soon followed at NAS Whidbey, replacing all the older Wildcats.

Within just two short years, the Douglas-built SBD Dauntless scout dive-bomber would steal the show at the airbase by becoming the predominant aircraft. The planes SBD Dauntless

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played a vital role in the Pacific during WWII, from shooting down Japanese Zeros over Pearl Harbor to sinking four carriers in the Battle of Midway.

Also arriving during the airbase’s first year was the venerable PBY Catalina. According to Naval Historical Center records, the long-lived seaplane was one of the “most useful aircraft during WWII,� with more built than any other flying boat before or since.

It was designed for use as a patrol, bomber or torpedo aircraft — it was also used for search PBY Catalina and rescue — and saw action in locations ranging from the English Channel in Europe when it located the German super battleship Bismarck, to the Aleutian Islands in Alaska on the other side of the world.

Post WWII

Following the end of the war, it was widely believed the base would be decommissioned.

But it survived to become the only air station north of San Francisco and west of Chicago to meet new runway and radar requirements, and support fleet and Alaskan activities.

With a clear runway into the future came the P2V Neptune, a land-based patrol bomber that set a P2V Neptune new bar for long distance flying. A variation of the aircraft, a P2V-1, set a world distance record in 1947 when it flew 11,236 miles form Perth, Australia, to Columbus, Ohio.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

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13

Official Commemorative Event Program A few years later, in 1956, a newer seaplane would reemerge as a force at NAS Whidbey.

Patrol squadrons flying the P5M-2 Marlin, a successor to the PBM Mariner, would dominate the airbase until the 1960s.

The aircraft, which also saw service with the Coast Guard and French navy, was P5M-2 Marlin the last flying boat used in operations by the Navy. Its final missions were with VP40, patrolling for enemy supply vessels off the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.

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Due to the sheer range of conflicts and wars the Prowler has participated in, it’s difficult to calculate its impact on the world. But like the Skywarrior, its future has a horizon. It’s in the process of being replaced by the EA-18G Growler, a specialized version of the F/A-18F Super Hornet.

Capable of speeds of more than 1,360 mph — the Prowler's top speed is 651 mph — the jet is blindingly fast. That speed supplements its abilities, allowing EA-18G Growler it to keep up with other attack aircraft and provide escort jamming rather than the standoff jamming limited to its predecessor.

The first aircraft was received in 2008 and the first squadron, the VAQ-132 Scorpions, recently returned from its first combat deployment. It participated in operation New Dawn Iraq and Operations Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector with coalition forces over Libya.

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Congratulations Naval Air Station Whidbey Island on your Centennial of Naval Aviation Achievement

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3161-C Goldie Road Just Outside the Porter Gate.

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states or in all GEICO companies. Government Employees Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states or in all GEICO companies. Government Employees Insurance Co. GEICO General Insurance Co. GEICO Indemnity Co. GEICO Casualty Co. These companies are subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Insurance Co. GEICO General Insurance Co. GEICO Indemnity Co. GEICO Casualty Co. These companies are subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. GEICO auto insurance is not available in MA. GEICO: Washington, DC 20076. Š 2007 GEICO. The GEICO gecko image Š GEICO 1999-2007 GEICO auto insurance is not available in MA. GEICO: Washington, DC 20076. Š 2007 GEICO. The GEICO gecko image Š GEICO 1999-2007

Some discounts,coverages,payment plans,and features are not available in all states or in FOR A FREE RATECo.QUOTE. all GEICOCALL companies.Government EmployeesInsurance GEICO General Insurance Co.GEICO Indemnity Co. GEICO Casualty Co.These companies are subsidiaries of Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states in allGEICO: GEICOWashington, companies. Government Berkshire Hathaway Inc. GEICO auto insurance is not available inorMA. Insurance Co. GEICO General Insurance GEICO2007 Indemnity Co. GEICO Casualty Co. These companies are subsidiaries of Berkshire DCCo. 20076.Š GEICO.The GEICO gecko image Š GEICO 1999-2007

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Another era that will soon end is that of the P-3C Orion aircraft.

Originally introduced in the 1960s, P-3C Orion it was designed to replace the Neptune and Marlin by fulfilling its duties of maritime patrol and reconnaissance. It serves largely as a sub-hunter.

(8*/ B &/,5 $6 #(3;:, The propellor-driven Orion is set to be replaced by the jet-powered P-8A%9, 0:? 030:(8? !;)30*(:0659 Poseidon, with the transition wrapping up 59:8;*:0659 ++ 7/65, by about 2019. It will (++8 continue the P-3C’s mission of tracking and eliminating enemy submarines.

Finally NAS Whidbey is home to a helicopter, the MH-60S Knighthawk. It took over for the Sikorsky SH-3D Sea King and serves as the rescue vehicle for the airbase’s Search and Rescue Unit.

While its primary mission is to support flight operations for Navy#0@, Region North (8*/ B west — rescuing (8*/ B &/,5 $6 #(3;:, downed pilots — &/,5 $6 #(3;:, %9, 0:? 030:(8? !;)30*(:0659 %9, 0:? 030:(8? !;)30*(:0659 most of its work is 59:8;*:0659 ++ 7/65,

(++8,99 /6568,, 05 59:8;*:0659 ++ 7/65, (++8,99 /6568,, done in the civilian community.

MH-60S Knighthawk (8*/ B Every year, the unit &/,5 $6 #(3;:, saves the lives of %9, 0:? 030:(8? !;)30*(:0659 stranded hikers and boaters all over the state.

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With the arrival of the A-3 Skywarrior in 1956, the airbase’s first jet-powered bomber, many things changed around the base. Infrastructure, equipment, and methods had to be updated to support the new aircraft and heavy attack squadrons were established.

By 1958, they outnumbered patrol squadrons by five to four. Nicknamed the “Whale� due to its sheer size, measuring over 74-feet long from nose to tail, the aircraft was designed to deliver nuclear weapons.

A-3 Skywarrior In an age where nuclear war was a very real possibility, it became the backbone of attack aviation.

But the Skywarrior’s days of air supremacy were limited and its importance began to fade with the arrival of the first A-6A Intruders in 1966.

The aircraft would become the workhorse of the Navy and Marine Corps, seeing service in a range of conflicts until its retirement in 1997.

According to the Naval Historical Center, the jet was A6-A Intruder the world’s first fully all-weather attack bomber. Even in zero-visibility conditions, it could detect and identify targets and

deliver both conventional and nuclear ordnance.

But it wasn’t the Intruder that would take center stage at NAS Whidbey. The spotlight was reserved for the EA-6B Prowler. The four-seat jet is similar to the A-6A in that it can navigate in all-weather conditions.

However, it was designed and built with electronic warfare in mind. With its primary weapon, the tactical jamming system, the aircraft has the ability to support allied forces by neutralizing EA-6B Prowler enemy radar.

In 1971, the airbase became the first to receive the new jet and it was quickly put to use in Vietnam.

Eventually, up to 15 Prowler squadrons would be stationed at NAS Whidbey, forming the nucleus of Navy electronic attack.

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Centennial of Naval Aviation 1911-2011

Historical stitchery Centennial of Naval Aviation quilts on display Twelve Navy Quilting Challenge quilts will be on display in Haviland Hangar during NAS Whidbey Island’s Centennial of Naval Avaiation fly in from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 30.

Local quilting guilds have also been invited to

At an unknown date, Dick Hayden, a retired Navy master chief, stands before a P5M Marlin seaplane. Hayden was the first master chief stationed at NAS Whidbey Island. Photo Courtesy of Dick Hayden

display patriotic and Navy-themed quilts.

The quilt challenge was the brainchild of Charlie Hoewing, wife of retired Vice Adm.

HAYDEN, FROM PAGE 10

Gerald Hoewing, President and Chief Execu-

with the arrival of the A-3 Skywarrior, the island's first jet-powered aircraft. Large and fast, it was unlike anything before it and was a game changer in terms of operations.

tive Officer of the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Fla. Charlie, quilter, museum volunteer and experienced Navy wife,

homecoming in Pensacola, Fla., last November.

It required new ammunition, tools for maintenance and the infrastructure to support it all. Turbine engines even needed a different type of fuel. At the same time, the base had to continue to support squadrons of P5M Marlin seaplanes and the P2V Neptune maritime patrol aircraft – the predecessor to the P-3 Orion sub-hunters.

Then they were divided up, packed into several

Hayden worked on them all.

trunks and have been traveling throughout the

"They were all pretty nasty," he laughed, referring to all the scrapes, bruises and bloody knuckles he acquired while maintaining them.

thought it would be wonderful to have a quilt challenge centering on the Navy’s 100th aviation anniversary.

The quilts debuted at the Blue Angels

United States as an integral part of Centennial celebrations. NAS Whidbey Island’s “white� trunk collection includes several award-winning quilts – for both quality work and theme.

You can view all the quilts in the challenge, read about the quilters and each quilt’s story at www.navyquilts.com/index.

Both of these quilts depict planes that have a history on NAS Whidbey Island and will be on display July 30 during the Centennial of Naval Aviation events. The quilt on top was created by Nancy Ann McGlothin of Raton, N.M., and the other was made by Sandra Takaro-Miller of Milton, Fla.

It was a lighthearted jest. While he remembers some aircraft more fondly than others, each earned a special place in his heart.

And though the Navy, the airbase, and its complement of aircraft have all changed vastly since he first arrived 63 years ago, Hayden said he has no regrets and is proud of his service to his country.

Congratulations on the 100th Anniversary of Naval Flight!

“The Navy has both a tradition and a future – and we look with pride and conďŹ dence in both directions.â€? - Admiral George Anderson

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Classic Cars & Motorcycles

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Checkpoint

Tales of Naval Aviation Squadron Memorabilia HAVILAND HANGAR

PUBLIC PARKING

Security

VINTAGE & MODERN AIRCRAFT DISPLAYS

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Centennial of Naval Aviation Heritage Fly-In NAS Whidbey Island - Ault Field

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Official Commemorative Event Program

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PUBLIC ENTRANCE From Hoffman Rd./ State Route 20

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NAS Operations

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PUBLIC ENTRANCE From Banta Rd./State Route 20

CHARLES PORTER AVENUE

Frequently asked questions How do I get to NAS Whidbey Island?

The general public will be allowed on board the air station Saturday, July 30, for the Centennial of Naval Aviation Heritage Fly-In. For the general public, Base Security will direct traffic onto the base via Hoffman Road and Banta Road/Hammer Gate beginning at 8 a.m. (for people participating in the 5K Flightline Run that begins at 9 a.m.) and continuing throughout the day.

Visitors with vehicle decals and ID cards (active duty and Reserve personnel, retirees, DoD civilians, contractors and family members) should enter the base via Langley Gate off Ault Field Road.

Visitors to Seaplane Base may use all entrances.

From Interstate 5:

Take Exit 230 (Anacortes/Burlington). Follow State Route 20 West and follow signs to Whidbey Island/Oak Harbor. (If you reach Anacortes, you’ve gone too far). Turn RIGHT at Banta Road and enter the base via the gate at Hammer Road.

From Coupeville Ferry:

After departing the ferry, turn LEFT on

Engle Road and follow it to State Route 20 in Coupeville. Take a LEFT at the light and continue NORTH through Oak Harbor. Travel past the A-6 Intruder/EA-6B Prowler static display at Ault Field Road. Turn LEFT onto Hoffman Road (by the Park & Ride) and follow directions provided by Base Security to flight line parking area.

From Mukilteo Ferry:

After departing the ferry, travel NORTH on State Route 525 and State Route 20 continuing through Oak Harbor. Travel past the A-6 Intruder/EA-6B Prowler static display at Ault Field Road. Turn LEFT onto Hoffman Road (by the Park & Ride) and follow directions provided by Base Security to flight line parking area.

Where will I park?

For Ault Field - The general public will be directed by Base Security to designated flight line parking areas.

For the Seaplane Base – Base Security will direct visitors to designated parking areas.

What about handicapped access?

People requiring handicapped-accessible parking will be directed by Base Security to

designated areas on the flight line.

What can I bring?

You may bring yourself, a light jacket (even in July, Whidbey Island can be a bit cool), money to purchase a snack or squadron patch or two, your camera, a sense of fun and adventure, sunglasses. Bring sunscreen and a hat. Wear comfortable clothing and a good pair of walking shoes!

Will there be a Security checkpoint?

Yes. For visitors on Ault Field, Base Security will be checking purses, backpacks, diaper bags, strollers, etc., as guests pass from the parking area to the event area.

What can’t I bring?

Pets (other than service dogs), glassware, alcoholic beverages and ice chests will not be allowed through the Security Checkpoint. Firearms, fireworks, explosives, knives, barbecues, flame starters and illegal substances are not allowed on Navy Property. Please leave them at home.

Anything else I need to know?

As a reminder, for your safety and those on the road with you, cell phone use while driving is not allowed on Navy property.

First Fridays

Art Walk & Late Night Shopping* Oak Harbor’s Historic Downtown

"6(645 r PM - 8 PM Pioneer Way Construction Project invites you to enjoy this event with shop front parking.

Pioneer Way currently offers complete access through downtown along Pioneer Way. You’ll find paved roads from City Beach St. to Dock St. and gravel road access to Midway Blvd.

Lots of parking available.

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