Commandant Third Naval District

• Establishment: The Third Naval District was established during World War I, on May 7, 1915, to help coordinate naval activities in the busy New York region. • Geographical Coverage: The district encompassed the state of New York and parts of northern New Jersey and Connecticut, placing it at the heart of U.S. naval logistics and operations. • Headquarters: The Commandant’s headquarters was located at the U.S. Navy Building at 90 Church Street, Manhattan, a site of immense naval administrative importance. • World War II Role: During WWII, the Third Naval District was pivotal in organizing convoy departures from New York Harbor, crucial for supplying Allied forces in Europe. • Espionage and Counterintelligence: The district’s command was deeply involved in anti-espionage activities, famously intercepting and countering German sabotage plots, such as Operation Pastorius in 1942. • Recruitment and Training: The district managed major recruiting and induction centers, processing thousands of sailors and officers, including the famous Brooklyn Navy Yard. • Naval Militia and Reserves: The Commandant oversaw the New York Naval Militia and local Naval Reserve units, which played a critical role in augmenting regular Navy manpower during wartime. • Famous Commandants: Notable officers served as Commandant, including Rear Admiral Adolphus Andrews, who played a leading role in the district’s WWII operations. • Postwar Changes: After WWII, the district helped oversee the transition of thousands of military personnel back to civilian life and the decommissioning of wartime facilities. • Disestablishment: The Third Naval District was disestablished in 1977 as part of a larger Navy reorganization, with its functions absorbed by other commands.