A Short History of Naval Aviation Pilots (Enlisted)

By Mark Freeman
HRNM Ceremonies/Special Events Coordinator

Naval Aviation Pilot insignia (NHHC)

Enlisted naval aviators have played a crucial role in the history of military aviation. Enlisted as non-commissioned officers, these aviators have undergone rigorous training, operated diverse aircraft, and actively participated in major battles.

The roots of enlisted pilots can be traced back to 1916. The first class of enlisted pilots were trained in Pensacola, Florida. Once these men received designation as Navy Air Pilots (Enlisted), many were transferred to the Navy Reserve Flying Corps, awaiting commission and held in an Active status as enlisted pilots until their commissioning. Enlisted men identified as interested in aviation increased during World War I, leading to the establishment of Naval Air Stations (NAS) for pilot training. As the demands of aerial combat escalated, the need for skilled pilots grew exponentially. The United States Navy established the Enlisted Pilot Corps to address this shortage in 1917. Enlisted pilots demonstrated their dedication and competence, proving that naval aviation was not the sole domain of commissioned officers. The first ten enlisted pilots received their wings at NAS Pensacola, Florida (all received a commission). This initial cadre of enlisted pilots primarily operated biplanes like the Curtiss N-9 and the Vought VE-7.

Curtiss N-9 (left) and Vought VE-7 (NHHC)

After World War I ended and many volunteers were demobilized, naval aviation again had issues maintaining qualified aviation personnel. Throughout 1919, Navy leaders discussed creating and maintaining a program specifically for enlisted aviators. All of the enlisted aviators previously qualified and designated between 1916 and 1919 had either been commissioned in the Naval Reserve Air Corps or had rescinded their commissions and were back in the fleet as enlisted personnel.

The first use of the term "Naval Aviation Pilots" (NAP) came from an October 1919 Bureau of Navigation letter, which stated, “In the future, it will be the policy of the Bureau to select a certain number of warrant officers and enlisted men for flight training and duty as pilots of large heavier-than-air craft and directional pilots of dirigibles.” Thus, without approval from Congress, the Navy began the NAP program. Congressional approval did not occur until the mid-1920s.

With the outbreak of World War II, naval aviation underwent a paradigm shift. Ninety-five percent of NAPs received temporary commissions. Since NAPs were trained in so many different types of aircraft, they could backfill undermanned air wings. NAPs found themselves at the forefront of combat operations in the Pacific theater. They were involved in major battles, such as the Battle of Midway in June 1942. Operating aircraft like the Douglas TBD Devastator, NAPs contributed significantly to the victory. Aviation Pilot First Class (AP1) Robert Miles was a member of Torpedo Squadron Eight (VT-8), which flew from USS Hornet (CV 8) during the battle. With no fighter cover protecting them, they attacked despite superior numbers and enemy weaponry. AP1 Miles was shot down and lost at sea. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross. VT-8 had only one survivor from the battle.

VT-8 aboard USS Hornet (CV 8), circa May 1942. Miles is in the front row, far right. (NHHC)

At the end of World War II, the NAP flyers either resigned their commissions and entered the “regular” Navy or left the service. In 1947 the Navy terminated the NAP program with the last of the trained enlisted pilots finishing their training that same year. NAPs would continue to fly through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, with four of the last five retiring on the same day in 1973.

The Enlisted Naval Aviation Pilot program faced its fair share of challenges, particularly during periods of conflict. World War II, in particular, witnessed a surge in demand for naval aviators, leading to an expansion of the program. Enlisted personnel, many of whom had never flown an aircraft before, were thrust into the rigorous training regimen that awaited aspiring naval aviators. The program's challenges were multifaceted. From mastering complex aircraft to navigating the intricacies of naval aviation, NAPs had to overcome skepticism and prove their worth in an environment traditionally dominated by commissioned officers. In an interview, NAP Francis “Red” O’Laughlin said, “Despite all of our accomplishments, officers still didn’t think we could do it.” The push for rapid expansion during wartime added an extra layer of pressure, with an emphasis on efficiency and effectiveness in training.

Despite the challenges, the Enlisted Naval Aviation Pilot program left an indelible mark on naval aviation history. The legacy of the NAPs is one of trailblazing courage and tenacity exemplifying the Navy's commitment to finding and nurturing talent irrespective of rank.

Naval Aviation Pilots (Enlisted) have a storied history, dating back to the early 20th century. From the biplanes of World War I to the cutting-edge jets of the 21st century, NAPs adapted to the changing face of naval aviation. Their involvement in major conflicts and battles consistently demonstrated their skill, versatility, and dedication to the mission at hand. When the Navy terminated the program in 1947, roughly 5,000 enlisted pilots had earned the right to be considered a Silver Eagle (Enlisted Naval Aviation Pilot). In 1981, the final NAP retired, ending a storied era in naval aviation.

ACCM (NAP) Robert K. Jones, the final NAP to retire. (Jetwhine.com)