About this Unit
**Airdale** is a term historically used in the United States Navy to refer to personnel and units involved in naval aviation. The origins of naval aviation date back to the early 20th century, with the establishment of the first Navy air stations and the integration of aircraft aboard ships. "Airdale" units played crucial roles in World War II, providing reconnaissance, air cover, and direct strikes from aircraft carriers across the Pacific and Atlantic theaters. Over the decades, Navy airdales have continued to evolve, embracing jet technology and advanced carrier operations, remaining at the forefront of American naval power projection.
Historical Facts
• Origin of the Term "Airdale": "Airdale" is an informal nickname used in the United States Navy to refer to personnel who work in aviation-related roles, especially those assigned to aircraft carriers and aviation squadrons.
• Carrier Aviation Roots: The nickname dates back to the early days of naval aviation in the 1920s and 1930s, when aviation was a relatively new addition to the traditional "sea-going" Navy.
• Distinct Uniform Insignia: Airdales often wear unique patches and insignia to denote their aviation specialties, such as aviation boatswain's mate, aviation ordnanceman, or aviation electronics technician.
• Role in WWII: Airdales played a critical role in World War II, especially during major battles like Midway and the Coral Sea, where carrier-based aircraft determined the outcome of engagements.
• Flight Deck Nicknames: The flight deck crew is known for colorful nicknames based on their jobs, such as "yellow shirts" (directors), "red shirts" (ordnance handlers), and "purple shirts" (fuel handlers).
• Dangerous Duty: Working as an airdale on a carrier flight deck is considered one of the most dangerous peacetime jobs in the military due to the risk of jet blasts, propellers, and moving aircraft.
• Legendary "FOD Walkdowns": Airdales participate in regular "FOD walkdowns," where the entire crew lines up to walk the flight deck and pick up any Foreign Object Debris (FOD) that could damage aircraft engines.
• Famous Airdales: Astronaut and Navy pilot Neil Armstrong and President George H. W. Bush both served as Navy airdales before their later achievements.
• "Brown Shoes" vs. "Black Shoes": A long-standing friendly rivalry exists between "brown shoes" (aviation personnel) and "black shoes" (surface fleet sailors), based on the color of their uniform footwear.
• Airdale Pride: Many Navy aviation veterans continue to identify as "airdale" long after their service, forming reunions and associations to preserve their unique legacy and camaraderie.
