About this Unit
Naval Air Station (NAS) Cecil Field, located in Jacksonville, Florida, was commissioned in 1941 as a key training base for naval aviators during World War II. Throughout the Cold War era, it became a principal master jet base for the U.S. Navy, supporting carrier-based attack and fighter squadrons, including those flying the A-7 Corsair II and F/A-18 Hornet. Cecil Field played a significant role in preparing squadrons for deployment during conflicts such as the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. The base was closed as an active military installation in 1999 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, but its legacy continues through its repurposing as a civilian airport and support facility for military reserve units.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: NAS Cecil Field was commissioned on June 20, 1941, as Naval Auxiliary Air Station Cecil Field, playing a key role in pilot training during World War II.
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Largest Military Base in Jacksonville: At its peak, NAS Cecil Field was the largest military base in the Jacksonville area, covering over 22,939 acres.
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Home to Carrier Air Wings: The station served as the home base for several carrier air wings, including Carrier Air Wing 1 and Carrier Air Wing 17, supporting Atlantic Fleet operations.
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Key Role in the Cold War: Cecil Field was a pivotal site for the U.S. Navy during the Cold War, housing squadrons equipped with advanced jet aircraft like the A-7 Corsair II and F/A-18 Hornet.
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Blue Angels Connection: The famous Blue Angels flight demonstration team was based at NAS Cecil Field from 1946 to 1948 before moving to NAS Corpus Christi.
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Vietnam War Deployments: Squadrons from Cecil Field were frequently deployed to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, conducting combat missions from aircraft carriers.
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Transition to Jets: The base was instrumental in transitioning the Navy from propeller-driven planes to jet aircraft, hosting early jet squadrons and training programs.
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Gulf War Operations: Cecil Field units played a significant role in Operation Desert Storm, supporting carrier-based attacks against Iraqi forces in 1991.
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Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC): In 1993, NAS Cecil Field was selected for closure as part of a nationwide base realignment, officially ceasing operations as a naval air station in 1999.
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Legacy and Current Use: Today, the former base operates as Cecil Airport and Cecil Commerce Center, but it still supports military operations, such as Florida Army National Guard aviation units and the U.S. Coast Guard.
