There are numerous sources, both public and private, that contributed to this publication. In early 1990, there were no actual station “history records” documented at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville. Today, there is a great array of photographs, historical documentation, and even artifacts. This came about with the assistance of numerous personnel at the station, and especially from former military and civilian employees who were stationed at or worked at the station throughout its almost 75-year history.
First and foremost, I thank former NAS Jacksonville commanding officer Rear Adm. Kevin Delaney. He first supported preserving the history of NAS Jacksonville starting in 1989. Other commanding officers since him who have been very interested in the base history and contributed in some major way include Capt. Charles “Skip” Cramer, Capt. Robert Whitmire, Rear Adm. Steven Turcotte, Rear Adm. Jack Scorby, and Capt. Robert “Colonel” Sanders. The base’s public affairs staff of Kaylee Larocque, Clark Pierce, and Miriam Gallet was always available for needed support.
The following individuals helped review selected images, chop text, and provide the necessary guidance for the final product; without their assistance, this publication would have been difficult to accomplish: My deepest gratitude goes out to Jacqueline Kern; Mary Francis Chergi; NAS Jacksonville Command Master Chief Bradley Shepherd; Chris Scorby; Sandra Acosta; Kelley Johnson; Linda Doktor, who scanned all the images; Perry Driver; Marsha Childs; Lt. Cmdr. Max Bassett; Capt. Brett Calkins; Gary Anderson; and my son, Justin Williamson, who is now appreciating Naval Aviation history. Finally, special thanks go to my coauthor, Emily Savoca, for all her contributions.
Unless otherwise noted, all images are provided courtesy of the US Navy.