NAS New York

• Origins in World War I: NAS New York was originally established during World War I, serving as a base for seaplane patrols along the East Coast to protect against German U-boat threats. • Strategic Location: Located on Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, NAS New York was the first municipal airport in New York City before it was converted into a naval air station in 1941. • World War II Role: During World War II, the station became a major training and operations hub for naval aviators, supporting anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort missions in the Atlantic. • Celebrity Aviators: Legendary aviators such as Amelia Earhart and Howard Hughes used Floyd Bennett Field (later NAS New York) for record-setting flights in the 1930s, highlighting its importance in aviation history. • Naval Reserve Training: After World War II, NAS New York became a critical center for Naval Reserve aviation training, helping to maintain readiness during the Cold War. • Cold War Defense: The station played a role in early warning and defense against potential Soviet bomber attacks, hosting fighter squadrons and radar units. • Notable Aircraft: Over the decades, the base hosted a wide variety of aircraft, including the Grumman F6F Hellcat, F4U Corsair, and later jet aircraft such as the F9F Panther and A-4 Skyhawk. • Community Ties: NAS New York was an integral part of the local community, hosting air shows, open houses, and providing emergency services during natural disasters. • Decommissioning and Legacy: The station was decommissioned in 1971 as part of a nationwide reduction in military bases but continues to serve as a historic site and part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. • Historic Recognition: Floyd Bennett Field, the site of NAS New York, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and preserves many original hangars and runways, allowing visitors to explore its rich military and aviation heritage.