Glenview Naval Air Station

• 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.