NAS North Island, San Diego

• Birthplace of Naval Aviation: NAS North Island is often called the "Birthplace of Naval Aviation" because it is where the Navy's first aviation units and training took place, dating back to 1911. • First Aircraft Carrier Home Port: The base was home to the USS Langley (CV-1), the U.S. Navy’s first aircraft carrier, commissioned in 1922. • Charles Lindbergh's Connection: In 1927, Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis was assembled and tested at North Island before his historic solo transatlantic flight. • World War II Significance: During WWII, NAS North Island was a major training and operating base for naval aviators and played a critical role in the Pacific Theater. • Historic Buildings: The base contains several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the original hangars and headquarters. • Home of the Pacific Fleet: It is the home port for several aircraft carriers of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, including the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). • Hollywood Connections: NAS North Island and nearby Coronado have featured in several films, most notably “Top Gun,” where scenes were filmed on the base. • Amelia Earhart's Ties: Amelia Earhart trained at North Island, becoming the first woman to receive a pilot's license from the National Aeronautic Association in 1923. • Aircraft Restoration: The base is home to the Naval Aviation Depot, which repairs and maintains Navy aircraft, and is one of the largest such facilities in the world. • Royal Visitors: In 1920, the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) visited NAS North Island to observe naval aviation demonstrations.