About this Unit
Naval Hospital Pensacola was established in 1826, making it one of the oldest medical facilities in the U.S. Navy. Originally built to support the Pensacola Navy Yard, it served sailors and Marines throughout numerous conflicts, including the Civil War, when it was occupied by both Confederate and Union forces at different times. The hospital expanded significantly during World War II, playing a vital role in treating wounded service members and supporting the growth of Naval Air Station Pensacola. Today, Naval Hospital Pensacola continues its legacy by providing comprehensive medical care to active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families along the Gulf Coast.
Historical Facts
• Oldest Naval Hospital in the U.S.: Naval Hospital Pensacola, established in 1826, is the oldest continuously operating naval hospital in the United States.
• Historic Relocations: The original hospital was located on the Pensacola Navy Yard, but was relocated multiple times due to hurricanes and expansion needs, with the current facility opening in 1978.
• Civil War Service: During the American Civil War, the hospital changed hands between Confederate and Union forces and treated wounded from both sides.
• Yellow Fever Epidemics: In the 19th century, the hospital played a critical role treating patients during several yellow fever outbreaks that threatened both military and civilian populations.
• WWII Expansion: The hospital rapidly expanded during World War II, treating thousands of wounded and sick service members, and was a key medical center for the Gulf Coast region.
• First Female Navy Nurses: Naval Hospital Pensacola was among the first to employ female Navy nurses, following the establishment of the Navy Nurse Corps in 1908.
• Training Center: The hospital has served as a training site for corpsmen, nurses, and medical officers, playing a vital role in Navy medical education for nearly two centuries.
• Hurricane Ivan (2004): Despite sustaining heavy damage during Hurricane Ivan, the hospital remained operational, providing crucial medical care to military personnel and local residents.
• Medical Milestones: The hospital has pioneered various medical practices, including early adoption of telemedicine to reach remote Navy and Marine Corps units.
• Modern Mission: Today, Naval Hospital Pensacola serves over 150,000 beneficiaries, including active-duty, retirees, and their families, and remains a cornerstone of military medicine in the Southeast.