Birth of Naval Aviation - Newport News VA - Non-Specific Veteran Memorials on Waymarking.com

Marker is in South Newport News in Newport News, Virginia. Marker can be reached from 16th Street (Virginia Route 167), on the left when traveling west. Marker is located at the Monitor-Merrimac Overlook Park. Marker is in this post office area: Newport News VA 23607, United States of America.

Type of Memorial: Non-Specific Memorial In Honor Of: Naval Aviators Marker Text: Birth of Naval Aviation-“The value of the aeroplane for the Navy is unquestioned.” – Eugene B. Ely Naval aviation dates from November 14, 1910, when stunt pilot Eugene B. Ely coaxed a Curtiss “Pusher” biplane from the deck of the cruiser “Birmingham” in these waters, landing in nearby Norfolk. Despite detractors, Ely secured private funding and Navy aid for his daring effort, launching a virtual revolution in military aviation. Date of dedication: 1993 Who Put it Here?: Newport News Historical Commission Description of Memorial: The top of the marker contains images of Ely’s Curtiss “Pusher” biplane in flight and a modern aircraft carrier. The bottom of the marker features the symbol of Naval Aviation. The monument is off the coast of where the Monitor and Merrimack battled. From this spot March 9, 1862, observers anxiously awaited the outcome of one of the most famous naval battles of all time – between the Confederate ironclad Virginia (formerly USS Merrimack) and the Union ironclad Monitor. Wars mentioned (Multi-war only): Not listed

Visit Instructions:
Visited Logs must contain, at least, a picture of the monument and your GPSr. Preferably YOU at the monument with your GPSr, but we understand that some people are camera-shy.
It is suggested you please include something about your visit here, as well.

Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log   10/28/2021 Don.Morfe visited it