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History of NATTC Memphis TN

Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) Memphis, Tennessee, was established in 1942 during World War II to meet the urgent need for trained aviation maintenance personnel. Located at the former Park Field in Millington, just north of Memphis, the facility quickly became one of the largest technical training centers for the U.S. Navy, providing instruction in aviation mechanics, electronics, and ordnance. Throughout the war and into the Cold War era, NATTC Memphis played a vital role in preparing sailors and marines for service with naval aviation units worldwide. In 1993, as part of military realignment, most training activities were relocated, and the base transitioned to become Naval Support Activity Mid-South, continuing its legacy of support to the Navy.

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ABOUT NATTC Memphis TN

  • Establishment: NATTC Memphis (Naval Air Technical Training Center) was established in 1942 to meet the urgent need for trained aviation personnel during World War II.
  • Location: The center was located at Millington, just north of Memphis, Tennessee, and was part of the larger Naval Air Station Memphis.
  • World War II Contribution: During WWII, NATTC Memphis rapidly became one of the largest technical training centers in the world, training thousands of aviation mechanics and support personnel.
  • Peak Activity: At its peak during World War II, the facility trained as many as 25,000 students at a time, with an average of 80,000 graduates per year.
  • WAVES Program: The center was among the first to host members of the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), training women in aviation maintenance and support roles.
  • Cold War Evolution: After World War II, NATTC Memphis transitioned to meet the demands of the Cold War, focusing on jet propulsion, electronics, and advanced aviation technologies.
  • Diverse Training: The center offered instruction in aviation maintenance, electronics, ordnance, and even nuclear weapons handling, reflecting the changing needs of the Navy.
  • Vietnam Era: During the Vietnam War, NATTC Memphis played a key role in preparing sailors and marines for the technological challenges of modern aerial warfare.
  • Name Changes: The original NATTC Memphis eventually became known as the Naval Air Station Memphis and later as Naval Support Activity Mid-South, reflecting broader logistical and administrative roles.
  • Legacy: Although the original technical training functions have moved, the Millington site remains an important Navy installation, providing support services for personnel and hosting several commands.

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