About this Unit
Glenview Naval Air Station, located in Glenview, Illinois, was commissioned in 1937 as a key facility for the U.S. Navy's aviation training and operations. During World War II, the station became a crucial site for the training of naval aviators, including carrier qualification exercises on Lake Michigan using converted paddle-wheel carriers. Throughout the Cold War, Glenview served as a hub for Naval Air Reserve and Marine Air Reserve units, supporting both peacetime and mobilization missions. The base was officially closed in 1995 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, with its facilities eventually repurposed for civilian use.
Historical Facts
•
Historic Origins: Glenview Naval Air Station (NAS Glenview) was established in 1923 originally as Curtiss Reynolds Wright Airport before the U.S. Navy acquired it in 1937.
•
World War II Training Hub: During World War II, NAS Glenview became a key training base for Navy pilots, especially for carrier landing practice using Lake Michigan as a simulated sea.
•
Lake Michigan Aircraft Carriers: The USS Wolverine and USS Sable, both converted paddle-wheel steamers, operated on Lake Michigan, allowing thousands of naval aviators to qualify in carrier landings just off the Glenview shoreline.
•
Aircraft Recovery: Over 130 aircraft sank into Lake Michigan during training exercises off Glenview. Many of these planes have since been recovered and restored for display in museums.
•
Presidential Connection: Former President George H.W. Bush trained at NAS Glenview as a naval aviator during World War II.
•
Cold War Role: After WWII, Glenview continued as a training and reserve base, supporting anti-submarine, reconnaissance, and transport missions through the Cold War.
•
Blue Angels: The U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration team performed at Glenview Air Shows, thrilling local crowds and highlighting the station’s aviation legacy.
•
Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC): In the 1990s, NAS Glenview was selected for closure as part of the BRAC process and officially closed in 1995 after more than 70 years of service.
•
Redevelopment: The former base area was transformed into “The Glen,” a vibrant mixed-use community featuring parks, shopping, homes, and the preserved historic Hangar One.
•
Historic Landmark: Hangar One, one of the original buildings, is on the National Register of Historic Places and now houses the Glenview History Center and the Naval Air Station Glenview Museum.
