The Aviation Field Yorktown Historic Marker in Newport News, Virginia, stands as a testament to the rich history of aviation training for naval pilots. Established in July 1919 on what is now 409 Yorktown Road, this historic site played a crucial role in advancing naval aviation capabilities during its operational period up until August 1921.
As you stand before the marker, you can almost picture the bustling activity that once filled this area, as eager pilots received advanced training in bomb, torpedo, and gunnery operations. The knowledge and skills they acquired at Aviation Field Yorktown prepared them for crucial missions aboard naval aircraft carriers, helping to ensure the United States naval dominance during times of war.
The historic marker itself is a symbol of the perseverance and innovation that characterized the early days of aviation, when pilots pushed the boundaries of what was possible in flight. As you listen to the hum of traffic along Yorktown Road today, take a moment to imagine the roar of aircraft engines echoing through the skies during those formative years of naval aviation.
Today, the Aviation Field Yorktown Historic Marker is part of the larger Yorktown Naval Weapons Station, which continues to serve as an essential facility for our nations security. As you walk away from the marker, remember the brave pilots who trained here and contributed to the success of naval aviation, shaping the course of history in ways that are still felt today.