NAS Whidbey Island

Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, located near Oak Harbor, Washington, was commissioned on September 21, 1942, during World War II to support Pacific naval operations. Initially serving as a training and patrol base, it played a vital role in anti-submarine warfare and maritime patrols throughout the war and the ensuing Cold War. Over the decades, NAS Whidbey Island became the primary home for the Navy's electronic warfare and maritime patrol aircraft, including the EA-6B Prowler and later the EA-18G Growler squadrons. Today, it remains a critical installation for naval aviation, supporting electronic attack, reconnaissance, and maritime patrol missions for the U.S. Navy and its allies.