NAVSTA Long Beach, CA

• Early Establishment: The Naval Station Long Beach (NAVSTA Long Beach) originated as a naval base in 1940, just before the U.S. entered World War II, quickly becoming a key West Coast facility. • World War II Hub: During WWII, the base played a crucial role in ship repair, outfitting, and logistics for the Pacific Fleet, supporting numerous wartime operations. • USS Iowa (BB-61): The legendary battleship USS Iowa was homeported at Long Beach in the 1980s, drawing attention as one of the Navy’s most powerful warships. • Home to the “Long Beach Navy Shipyard”: Adjacent to NAVSTA, this shipyard conducted major overhauls and repairs for Navy vessels, contributing heavily to naval readiness. • Cold War Significance: NAVSTA Long Beach was a major homeport for the Pacific Fleet during the Cold War, supporting aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, and support ships. • Vietnam War Support: The base was a vital logistical point for ships and troops deploying to and returning from Vietnam, playing a behind-the-scenes role in the conflict. • Presidential Visits: Presidents, including Richard Nixon, visited the base, recognizing its importance and speaking to service members stationed there. • Closure and Redevelopment: NAVSTA Long Beach was closed in 1997 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, leading to significant redevelopment of the area into commercial and recreational spaces. • Environmental Legacy: The closure initiated extensive environmental cleanup efforts, addressing decades of industrial and military activity on the site. • Historic Landmarks: Several structures from the base, such as the iconic Navy Mole Pier and some administrative buildings, remain as reminders of the area’s naval heritage.