| Seq No. | Timeline | File Name | Content Type | Description | Remarks |
| 44 | Dec-14-1903 | Dec14_1903.jpg | Photo | First Flight by Wright Brothers | The photo was taken by one of the Coast Guardsmen at the Kill Devil Hills station during the first flight event. |
| 146 | Jan-01-1915 | Mf_m.jpg | Photo | Curtiss F Boat circa 1915-1918 | Curtiss F Boat circa 1915-1918 Symbol for the "Ancient Albatross" Award. |
| 171 | Jan-01-1917 | R_6_m.jpg | Photo | Flown by Coast Guard aviators during World War I from the cruiser USS Huntington and used by the fledgling air arm of the Coast Guard to develop the concept search and rescue after the war. | Flown by Coast Guard aviators during World War I from the cruiser USS Huntington and used by the fledgling air arm of the Coast Guard to develop the concept search and rescue after the war. It had a cruise speed of 65 knots, a range of 300 miles and a service ceiling of 4200 feet. |
| 367 | Jan-01-1917 | Curtiss_R_6.jpg | Photo | Curtiss R-6 1917-1918 | Curtiss R-6 - one of the early CG aircraft circa 1917-1918 |
| 640 | Mar-22-1917 | FirstAviationGroup.jpg | Photo | The First Coast Guard Group going through Naval Aviation Training at Pensacola | Pictured here from Left to Right: C.T. Thrun, Master at Arms, later a warrant officer who was killed while flying at Cape May, N.J., in January, 1935; J. F. Powers, Oiler First Class, who later left the service; George Ott, Ship's Writer, who later left the service; C. Griffin, Master at Arms, who later left the service; John Wicks, Surfman; Third Lieut. Robert Donohue, who became a Rear Admiral, was Chief, Air-Sea Rescue Office, Chief, Personnel Officer at Headquarters, retired June 1, 1946; Second Lieut. C. E. Sugden, who retired a Captain on August 1, 1946; Second Lieut. E. A. Coffin, who retired a Rear Admiral on April 1, 1950; First Lieut. S. V. Parker, who retired as Vice Admiral Sept. 1, 1947; Second Lieut. P. B. Eaton, who became Rear Admiral, and Assistant Engineer-in-Chief at Headquarters, retired August 31, 1946; Third Lieut. E. F. Stone, designated Coast Guard Aviator No. 1 who in 1919 made history as pilot of the Navy Seaplane NC4 that made the first trans-Atlantic crossing, was a Commander when he died May 20, 1936; Ora Young, Surfman, who later left the service; W. R. Malew, Coxswain, who later left the service; J. Meyers, Surfman, who later left the service; J. Medusky, Asst. Master at Arms, who later left the service; R. F. Gillis, Signalman Quartermaster; W. S. Anderson, Surfman, who retired as a Lieut. Commander, November 1, 1946; L. M. Melka, Signal Quartermaster, later became a Lieutenant. |
| 43 | Jan-01-1919 | curtiss_h1c_flying_boat.jpg | Photo | Curtiss H1C Flying Boat | Curtiss H1C Flying Boat circa 1919 |
| 85 | Jan-01-1920 | UO_1.jpg | Photo | LCDR C. C. Von Paulson borrowed this plane from the Navy, and with a $1.00 surplus Army tent hangar, set up a base at Gloucester Harbor known as "Ten Pound Island". | Chance Vought UO-1 - 1925-1926 - LCDR C. C. Von Paulson borrowed this plane from the Navy, and with a $1.00 surplus Army tent hangar, set up a base at Gloucester Harbor known as "Ten Pound Island". This project was discontinued in 1926 because of a lack of funds, and the airplane was returned to the Navy. |
| 155 | Jan-01-1920 | HS_2L_m.jpg | Photo | Four of these aircraft were operated by the Coast Guard's infant aviation service to search the sea lanes off the Virginia and North Caroline coasts assisting in the location of vessels in distress. | Four of these aircraft were operated by the Coast Guard's infant aviation service to search the sea lanes off the Virginia and North Caroline coasts assisting in the location of vessels in distress. It had a range of 575 miles, a cruise speed of 69 knots and a service ceiling of 5000 feet. |
| 523 | Jun-01-1920 | HS2L Launch, CGAS Moorehead City.jpg | Photo | Curtiss HS-2L | CGAS Morehead City was started 24 March 1920 and was decomissioned the following year. Here a Curtiss HS-2L is being launched. |
| 5 | Jun-09-1920 | HollenbeckMail Pilot.jpg | Photo | US Mail Pilot Hollenbeck | The Mail must go thru! |
| 505 | Jul-01-1925 | ten_pound_island_01.jpg | Photo | First CG Air Station, Ten Pound Island, Gloucester, MA | Although Coast Guard pioneering in aviation began as early as 1915, the first successful Coast Guard Air Station began with the establishment of an air unit at Ten Pound Island, Gloucester, MA, in 1925, with one Vought seaplane borrowed from the Navy. The seaplane hangar at Base 7, Ten Pound Island is shown here about 1926-1927. LCDR Carl Von Paulsen, USCG, commanded Base 7 and the air unit, while Ensign Leonard M. Melka, USCG, served as pilot and mechanic for the seaplane. |
| 82 | Jan-01-1926 | LoeningOL-5_onwater.jpg | Photo | Loening OL-5 circa 1926-1935 | Loening OL-5 circa 1926-1935 first aircraft designed and built for US Coast Guard. |
| 83 | Jan-01-1926 | Loening OL-5.jpg | Photo | Loening OL-5 circa 1926-1935 | Loening OL-5 circa 1926-1935 |
| 84 | Jan-01-1926 | vought_UO-4.jpg | Photo | Essentially an improved version of the UO-1 fitted with floats, these were the 4th and 5th aircraft purchased by the Coast Guard. | Essentially an improved version of the UO-1 fitted with floats, these were the 4th and 5th aircraft purchased by the Coast Guard. They had a top speed of 106 knots, a cruise speed of 80 knots, a range of 365 miles and a service ceiling of 14,000 feet. |
| 158 | Jan-01-1926 | LoeningOL-5_onramp.jpg | Photo | Three of these Liberty engine amphibians were the first aircraft purchased by the Coast Guard. | Three of these Liberty engine amphibians were the first aircraft purchased by the Coast Guard. One crashed in 21929, another in 1930 and the third was decommissioned in April 1935. They had a maximum speed of 105 knots, cruise speed of 65 knots a range of 415 miles and a service ceiling of 12,750 feet, They were also operated by the Army air service as the OA-1 |
| 165 | Jan-01-1926 | Uo_4_m.jpg | Photo | Essentially an improved version of the UO-1 fitted with floats, these were the 4th and 5th aircraft pur-chased by the Coast Guard. | Essentially an improved version of the UO-1 fitted with floats, these were the 4th and 5th aircraft pur-chased by the Coast Guard. They had a top speed of 106 knots, a cruise speed of 80 knots, a range of 365 miles and a service ceiling of 14,000 feet. |
| 582 | Jun-01-1926 | Vought_UO4_1926.jpg | Photo | Vought UO4 | Early UO4 on takeoff - circa 1926 |
| 399 | May-01-1927 | CDR_C_C_Von_Paulsen_and_ENS_L_M_Melka.jpg | Photo | CDR C. C. von Paulsen, Commanding Section Base #7, Gloucester, Mass (10# Island) with Ensign L. W. Melka in flying clothing | CDR C. C. von Paulsen, Commanding Section Base #7, Gloucester, Mass (10# Island) with Ensign L. W. Melka in flying clothing |
| 609 | May-04-1927 | gloucester_aircraft_picking_up_shotline.jpg | Photo | Picking up shotline to deliver to offshore ship. | Aircraft at CGAS Gloucester, 1st CG Air Station, picking up shot line between poles - 1927 |
| 610 | May-04-1927 | gloucester_attaching_catch_rig_for_shotline.jpg | Photo | Ens Melka attaches catch rig for shotline | Ens L. M. Melka attaches the shotline pickup catch device to the aircraft at CGAS Gloucester. Gloucester was the first CG Air Station and Ens Melka (then an enlisted Signalman QuarterMaster) was in the first class of CG Aviators going through flight training along with Elmer Stone, CHBOSN Thrun, Parker, Sugden, Coffin, etc. |
| 611 | May-04-1927 | gloucester_faking_out_shotline.jpg | Photo | The crew fakes out the shotline while CDR Von Paulsen and Ens Melka look on. | The shotline is faked out on this board so that it does not tangle during runout. Two crewmen of CGAS Gloucester take care of the task while the Commanding Office CDR Carl Von Paulsen and ENS M. L. Melka look on. |
| 163 | Jan-01-1930 | S_39_m.jpg | Photo | One of fifteen miscellaneous aircraft confiscated by the Customs Division. | One of fifteen miscellaneous aircraft confiscated by the Customs Division. Some were used by the Border Patrol and some were used by the Coast Guard. The amphibian is shown patrolling the International America Cup Races off Newport, RI in 1930. |
| 630 | May-23-1930 | Elmer Stone Congressional Gold Medal.jpg | Photo | LT Elmer Stone with Congressional Gold Medal | The closeup is of LT Elmer Stone looking at the Congressional Gold medal presented to him by President Herbert Hoover on 23 May 1930 for the NC-4 Transatlantic Flight. |
| 114 | Jan-01-1931 | O38_c_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas O-38C circa 1931-1934 | Douglas O-38C circa 1931-1934 |
| 148 | Jan-01-1931 | OO_1_m.jpg | Photo | Shreck Viking-001 circa 1931-1941 | Viking Boat Company OO-1 - 1931-1941 Six of these aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard in 1931, the last one decommissioned shortly before World War II. Originally a French design, they had a unit cost of $6500. With a top speed of 90 knots, a cruise speed of 75 knots a stall speed of 41 knots and a range 390 miles, they were a fine aircraft for landing in the open sea and were used at Miami, Biloxi, Cape May, Charleston and St Petersburg Air Stations. |
| 128 | Jan-01-1932 | N4y_1_m.jpg | Photo | It was used by the Coast Guard as a trainer at Cape May, NJ. | Consolidated N4Y-1 - 1932-1941 Also known as the PT-11D, one of these planes was bought by the Coast Guard for $8,000. It had a top speed of 102 knots with a Lycoming R-680-6 engine and a fixed pitch metal propeller. It was used by the Coast Guard as a trainer at Cape May, NJ. |
| 147 | Jan-01-1932 | FLB_m.jpg | Photo | Fokker PJ-1 "Flying LifeBoat" circa 1932-1941 | Fokker PJ-1 "Flying LifeBoat" circa 1932-1941 |
| 151 | Jan-01-1932 | Rd_1_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-1 Dolphin - 1932-1939 | Douglas RD-1 - 1932-1939 - One of the planes was purchased on Army contract #AC-4460 for $36,000. It was given the number 109 and the name SIRUS. With a Wright Whirlwind R975E engine it had a top speed of 135 knots, a range of 466 miles and a stall speed of 52 knots. It could take off in 594 feet with no wind and made an excellent open sea landing aircraft. |
| 152 | Jan-01-1932 | Rd_4_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas Dolphin | The later Dolphins were especially liked by the aviators. The first of a standarized series of aircraft for the Coast Guard. They were still in operation in 1941. All were named for stars and this one is Number 132 named Alioth. |
| 162 | Jan-01-1932 | PJ_1_m.jpg | Photo | The first rescue plane designed specifically for Coast Guard use and known as the FLYING LIFEBOAT. | The first rescue plane designed specifically for Coast Guard use and known as the FLYING LIFEBOAT. Four aircraft, #112 ALTAIR, #113 , #114 , #115 ARTCTURUS were purchased on a Coast Guard contract for $73.343 each. They were powered by WSP R1340-C-1 engines and fixed pitch Hamilton Standard propellers. |
| 172 | Jan-01-1932 | RD_2_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD2 Dolphin | Pictured here is Number 129 named the Adhara. |
| 362 | Jan-01-1932 | Rd4_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-1 Dolphin | Douglas RD-1 Dolphin #128 Named SIRIUS - the first RD-1 obtained from the US Navy. |
| 368 | Jan-01-1932 | Consolidated_N4Y_1.jpg | Photo | Consolidated N4Y-1 also known as the PT-11D | Consolidated N4Y-1 (nee PT-11D), circa 1932-1941. One of these aircraft was bought by the Coast Guard on Army contract #AC-4625 for $8,000. It had a top speed of 102 knots with a Lycoming R-680-6 engine and a fixed pitch metal propeller. It was used by the Coast Guard as a trainer at Cape May and given the number V110, later changed to CG 310. |
| 552 | Mar-24-1932 | CGAS_Cape_May_032432.jpg | Photo | CGAS Cape May | Aerial view of CGAS Cape May 1932 |
| 393 | Jun-13-1932 | Radm Hamlett Comdt with Aline Chalker daughter CDR Lloyd Chalker.jpg | Photo | Radm Harry Hamlet, Commandant USCG with Aline Chalker, daughter of CDR Lloyd Chalker | Radm Harry Hamlet, Commandant USCG with Aline Chalker, daughter of CDR Lloyd Chalker in front of an RD-4 Dolphin. |
| 631 | Jul-01-1932 | PJ-2.jpg | Photo | Fokker PJ-2 | Fokker PJ-1 1932-1941 The Antares serial number 251. The basic difference between the PJ-1 and the PJ-2 is that the PJ-2 came with tractor (puller) installation vice pusher type. |
| 737 | Jul-01-1932 | Douglas_RD2_Dolphin_V129_Adhara_1932-37_SDO19_800.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD2 "Dolphin" V129 "Adhara" | This image taken in 1932 of the "Adhara" Douglas RD2 Dolphin was provided courtesy of CGAS San Diego through Ptero CDR Ron Huddleston. |
| 88 | Jan-01-1934 | Viking OO-1.jpg | Photo | Six of these aircraft were purchased 1931 and 1936, the last one decommissioned shortly before World War II. | Six of these aircraft were purchased 1931 and 1936, the last one decommissioned shortly before World War II. Originally a French design, they had a unit cost of $6,000. With a top speed of 90 knots, a cruise speed of 75 knots, a stall speed of 41 knots and a range of 390 miles, they were the first aircraft used for landing in the open sea. They were stationed at Miami, Biloxi, Cape May, Charleston and St Petersburg Air Stations. |
| 89 | Jan-01-1934 | Hall Aluminum PH-2 A.jpg | Photo | Several of these air-sea rescue versions of the Navy seaplane patrol bomber were purchased by the Coast Guard | Several of these air-sea rescue versions of the Navy seaplane patrol bomber were purchased by the Coast Guard on contract #Tcg-26491 and 26810 at a unit cost $116.104. They were powered by Wright Cyclone R1820 engines, had a cruising speed of 120 knots, a stall speed of 53 knots and a range 2242 miles. They were assigned numbers V-164 to V170. |
| 129 | Jan-01-1934 | Nt_2_m.jpg | Photo | New Standard NT-2 circa 1934-1935 | New Standard NT-2 circa 1934-1935 |
| 137 | Jan-01-1934 | R3q_1_m.jpg | Photo | One of these aircraft was purchased by the Coast Guard for electronics test flying at a cost of $11,370. | One of these aircraft was purchased by the Coast Guard for electronics test flying at a cost of $11,370. It was stationed at Coast Guard Air Station Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY and assigned the number 149. It had a cruised speed of 120 knots and was powered by a Lycoming R-680-1 engine pinning a Smith controllable pitch propeller. |
| 140 | Jan-01-1934 | RQ_1_m.jpg | Photo | Stinson RQ-1 circa 1934-1937 | Stinson RQ-1 circa 1934-1937 |
| 355 | Jan-01-1934 | Douglas_RD_4.jpg | Photo | Dolphin Water Take-Off | RD-4 Dolphin Name Unknown |
| 356 | Jan-01-1934 | Douglas_RD_2.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin flying over water | RD-4 Dolphin Name Unknown |
| 357 | Jan-01-1934 | Douglas_RD_5.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin | RD-4 Dolphin name unknown pictured on ramp in profile. |
| 358 | Jan-01-1934 | Rd_1_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin Name Unknow on ramp warming up. |
| 359 | Jan-01-1934 | Douglas_RD_3.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin Name Unknown pictured from above in flight. |
| 360 | Jan-01-1934 | RD_4_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin | Dolphin #128 Named SIRIUS |
| 361 | Jan-01-1934 | Douglas_RD_1.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin #132 | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin #132 Named ALIOTH on the water |
| 363 | Jan-01-1934 | R4d_5_m.jpg | Photo | Douglas RD-4 Dolphin | RD-4 Dolphin #137 Named CAPELLA |
| 167 | Jan-10-1934 | JF_2_m.jpg | Photo | The aircraft shown here was attached to the Coast Guard icebreaker Northwind during Operation "High Jump" in the Antarctic in 1946-1947. | Ten of these utility amphibians were given to the Coast Guard by the Navy. The aircraft shown here was attached to the Coast Guard icebreaker Northwind during Operation "High Jump" in the Antarctic in 1946-1947. A rugged airplane, the DUCK had a mind of its own during cross wind landings on a runway. These aircraft kept their Navy serial numbers. |
| 547 | May-01-1934 | CGASCapeMay1934_750.jpg | Photo | CGAS Cape May Air Station | Composite photo of CGAS Cape May with Aircraft and entire crew. |
| 613 | Sep-15-1934 | FLBAntaresPJ-1.jpg | Photo | Folker PJ-1, FLB Antares executing the medevac of a stetcher case from SS Samuel O. Brown in September 1934. | Here the Fokker PJ-1 Flying Lifeboat lands alongside the SS Samuel O. Brown to evacuate an injured crewman. |
| 86 | Jan-01-1935 | JF-2.jpg | Photo | Purchased under Navy contract at a cost of $45,000 each, fourteen of these amphibians were operated by the Coast Guard. | Purchased under Navy contract at a cost of $45,000 each, fourteen of these amphibians were operated by the Coast Guard. V135 was assigned to CGC Taney at Honolulu. V144 was used aboard CGC Spencer in Cordova, Alaska, and is shown being hoisted aboard the cutter. One was traded to the Navy for a Lockheed XR30-1 in 1936. In an aircraft of this type (V167) CDR Elmer Stone set a speed record on 20 December 1934 at Buckroe Beach, Virginia, when flew a 3 kilometer course at 191.8 mph. On 25 June 1935 LT Burke set another record by carrying a load of 1102 pounds. |
| 141 | Jan-01-1935 | RT_1_m.jpg | Photo | The only DELTA ever purchased by the military, it was used as a command transport for the Secretary of Treasury. | The only DELTA ever purchased by the military, it was used as a command transport for the Secretary of Treasury. The cost of this air-craft was $45,000 and it was originally assigned number 150 but later changed to 362. It was a slick executive aircraft, cruising at 185 knots with a service ceiling of 20,000 feet powered by a Wright Cyclone R1820 engine and Hamilton Standard controllable pitch propeller. |
| 314 | Jan-01-1935 | JF-2_A.jpg | Photo | Grumman JF-2 Duck A model | A model |
| 402 | Jun-01-1935 | PJ-1s on Ramp 1935.jpg | Photo | Fokker PJ-1s on Ramp 1935 | Fokker PJ-1s on Ramp 1935 |
| 87 | Jun-10-1935 | PJ-1s on Ramp 1935.jpg | Photo | The first rescue plane designed specifically for Coast Guard use and known as the FLYING LIFEBOAT. | The first rescue plane designed specifically for Coast Guard use and known as the FLYING LIFEBOAT. Four aircraft, #113 ACRUX, #114 ACAMAR, #115 ARCTURUS, #116 ANTARES, and #127 ALTAIR were purchased on a Coast Guard contract for $73,343 each. They were powered by WSP R1340-C-1 engines and fixed pitch Hamilton Standard propellers. The pusher versions were Model PJ-1 while the PJ-2 were tractor versions. |
| 135 | Jan-01-1936 | R_301_m.jpg | Photo | One of these Admirals Flagship aircraft was purchased for $65,000. | One of these Admirals Flagship aircraft was purchased for $65,000. It had a cruising speed of 110 knots and could carry 12 passengers. It was powered by Pratt and Whitney WSP JR R985 engines and Hamilton Standard controllable pitch propellers. Its range was 850 miles and its service ceiling was 11,450 feet. |
| 143 | Jan-01-1936 | XR30_1_m.jpg | Photo | Lockheed R30-1 Electra circa 1936-1942 | Lockheed R30-1 Electra circa 1936-1942 |
| 401 | Jun-01-1936 | PJ-1 Beached 1936.jpg | Photo | Salem Fokker PJ-1 beached | Salem Fokker PJ-1 beached |
| 581 | Jul-01-1936 | Salem_barracks_July01_1936.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem Barracks Construction | The barracks at CGAS Salem is seen here under construction in 1936. |
| 735 | Jul-01-1936 | Linholm_Hesford_1936_SDO03_800.jpg | Photo | LT's Hesford & Linholm | From right to left are: LT Arthur J. Hesford and LT Stanley C. Linholm pictured at San Diego in 1936. The Commanding Officer of the Air Patrol Detachment (forerunner of CGAS San Diego) was CDR Elmer Stone. |
| 123 | Jan-01-1937 | J2K_1_m.jpg | Photo | Two of each aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard for $6466 and $7129 each. | Two of each aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard for $6466 and $7129 each. V160 and V161, the -1s, were assigned to St Pe-tersburg, Florida. V162 and V163, the -2s, were assigned to Charleston, SC. Powered by Ranger 6-410 engine, they had a cruise speed of 110 knots and a stall speed of 41 knots. All were lost in unscheduled contact with the earth! |
| 124 | Jan-01-1937 | J2W_1_m.jpg | Photo | Three of these aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard for $12.054 each. | Three of these aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard for $12.054 each. They were used for various assignments, all three eventually being attached to the Patrol Detachment at El Paso. All were destroyed in crashes in 1939. |
| 303 | Jan-01-1937 | CGAS_SDiego_37.jpg | Photo | CGAS San Diego & Lindberg Field | CGAS San Diego (Lindberg Field)1937 - photo taken by Captain Frank Erickson |
| 315 | Jan-01-1937 | JF-2_C.jpg | Photo | Grumman JF-2C Duck C model | Model C |
| 409 | Apr-01-1937 | uscg_rd2_escorts_hindenberg_lakehurst.jpg | Photo | A USCG RD2 Aircraft escorts the Hindenberg over NAS Lakehurst. | A Coast Guard RD2 escorts the Hindenberg over NAS Lakehurst. We do not know the name of the other dirgible tethered at the mast in the top right corner. The date of this photo is not known but is prior to May 6, 1937 when she burned. |
| 580 | Dec-10-1937 | salem_12_10_37.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem Hangar | Aerial view of the CGAS Salem Hangr taken in December 1937. |
| 321 | Dec-12-1937 | 12_dec_37.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem Hangar | CGAS Salem Hanger from ramp side |
| 150 | Jan-01-1938 | PH_2_m.jpg | Photo | Several of these air sea rescue versions of the Navy seaplane patrol bomber were purchased by the Coast Guard at a cost of $116,104. | Several of these air sea rescue versions of the Navy seaplane patrol bomber were purchased by the Coast Guard at a cost of $116,104. They were powered by Wright Cyclone engines, had a cruise speed of 120 knots, stall speed of 63 knots and a range of 2242 miles. They were assigned numbers V164-V170 |
| 153 | Jan-01-1938 | SOC4_m.jpg | Photo | Forty eight of these aircraft were assigned to the Coast Guard ASW patrol of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal waters during World War II. | Forty eight of these aircraft were assigned to the Coast Guard ASW patrol of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal waters during World War II. Many were delivered with wheels but all were eventually fitted with floats for Coast Guard work. |
| 170 | Jan-01-1938 | Ph_3_m.jpg | Photo | These seaplanes saw extensive service during World War II on ASW patrol and in the development of a coordinated search and rescue organization. | An improved version of the PH-2, seven of this model were purchased by the Coast Guard for $130,000 each. These seaplanes saw extensive service during World War II on ASW patrol and in the development of a coordinated search and rescue organization. |
| 173 | Jan-01-1938 | Soc_4_m.jpg | Photo | ||
| 177 | Jan-01-1938 | Early_Dinner_Key1.jpg | Photo | Early days of Dinner Key - CGAS Miami and the Pan Am Hangars. | PH2 Hall boats on the ramp of CGAS Miami (Dinner Key) circa 1938. |
| 266 | Jan-01-1938 | st_pete_38.jpg | Photo | Initial CG Air Station at St. Petersburg, Florida | This photo was taken in 1938 near the completion of the facilities at CGAS St. Petersburg Florida. |
| 323 | Feb-28-1938 | 28_feb38.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem officers and crew pictured in front of hanger. | |
| 403 | Dec-11-1938 | V115 Transfer to SPete.jpg | Photo | Salem V-115 Transferred to CGAS St. Petersburg | Salem V-115 Transferred to CGAS St. Petersburg December 11, 1938 |
| 463 | Jun-01-1940 | R50 Lodestar Panel.jpg | Photo | Lockheed Lodestar Cockpit Panel | View of the Lockheed Lodestar R50-1 cockpit panel. |
| 464 | Jun-01-1940 | Pilot's Side JRF 1940 Contract.jpg | Photo | Pilot's Station in JRF | View of the pilot's side/station of Grumman JRF "Goose" |
| 465 | Jun-01-1940 | Panel JRF 1940 Contract.jpg | Photo | JRF Panel | Flight panel of Grumman JRF "Goose" |
| 466 | Jun-01-1940 | PBY Pilot's JATO Switch.jpg | Photo | PBY JATO Switch | Pilot's JATO switch in Consolidated PBY-5A |
| 94 | Jan-01-1941 | JRF_2.jpg | Photo | Grumman JRF-2 Goose | The number of this aircraft is not discernable but they had V numbers in the 190 through 230 range. |
| 127 | Jan-01-1941 | N3n_3_m.jpg | Photo | A rugged plane, the Yellow Perils were the curse and salvation of thousands of fledgling aeronauts. | Four of these trainers were acquired by the Coast Guard from the Navy to provide aircraft for the accelerated Coast Guard pilot training program. Numbers assigned were V193 to V196. Note the canvas instrument flying hood attached to the rear seat. A rugged plane, the Yellow Perils were the curse and salvation of thousands of fledgling aeronauts. |
| 145 | Jan-01-1941 | J4F_1_202.jpg | Photo | Grumman JR4F-1 Widgeon - Twenty five of theses aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard at a unit cost of $75.526. | Twenty five of theses aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard at a unit cost of $75.526. Powered by 2 Ranger L-440-2 in-line engines with Sensenich wooden fixed pitch propellers, they performed well on missions of all kinds. Most unusual was the ASW version carrying two depth charges on bomb racks under the wings. This aircraft was number V202. |
| 157 | Jan-01-1941 | J4F_1_203.jpg | Photo | Grumman JR4F-1 Widgeon - Twenty five of theses aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard at a unit cost of $75.526. | Twenty five of theses aircraft were purchased by the Coast Guard at a unit cost of $75.526. Powered by 2 Ranger L-440-2 in-line engines with Sensenich wooden fixed pitch propellers, they performed well on missions of all kinds. Most unusual was the ASW version carrying two depth charges on bomb racks under the wings. This aircraft was number V203. |
| 316 | Jan-01-1941 | JF-2_D.jpg | Photo | Grumman JF-2D Duck D Model | Model D |
| 467 | Jun-01-1941 | J4F Widgeon Overhead Panel.jpg | Photo | J4F Widgeon Overhead Panel | Overhead panel of Grumman J4F "Widgeon" |
| 468 | Jun-01-1941 | J4F Widgeon Panel.jpg | Photo | J4F Widgeon Cockpit Panel | Cockpit panel from Grumman J4F "Widgeon" |
| 492 | Jul-01-1941 | 4_Map_Alaska.jpg | Photo | Annette Island, Alaska (Metlakatla)became an airlines terminal and CG Air Station in 1941 | Map of Alaska and Map of Annette Island |
| 493 | Jul-01-1941 | 7_1941_RunwayA_Construction.jpg | Photo | CGAS Annette runway construction | |
| 503 | Jul-01-1941 | V_212_J4F_1.jpg | Photo | J4F Widgeon | The J4F Widgeon, Manufactured by Grumman, is pictured here fully restored in the Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola and was used by the CG from 1941 - 1848. |
| 553 | Aug-30-1941 | CGAS_Cape_May_083041.jpg | Photo | CGAS Cape May | Aerial view CGAS Cape May 1941 |
| 136 | Jan-01-1942 | R50_4_m.jpg | Photo | Seven of these improved versions of the Lodestar were assigned to the Coast Guard by the Navy for use as executive transports | Seven of these improved versions of the Lodestar were assigned to the Coast Guard by the Navy for use as executive transports, based at Floyd Bennett field, Elizabeth City and the Headquarters detachment at Washington National Airport. |
| 144 | Jan-01-1942 | J2f_m.jpg | Photo | Ten of these utility amphibians were given to the Coast Guard by the Navy. | Ten of these utility amphibians were given to the Coast Guard by the Navy. The aircraft shown here was attached to the Coast Guard icebreaker Northwind during Operation "High Jump" in the Antarctic in 1946-1947. A rugged airplane, the DUCK had a mind of its own during cross wind landings on a runway. These aircraft kept their Navy serial numbers. |
| 156 | Jan-01-1942 | J2fduck_m.jpg | Photo | The aircraft shown here was attached to the Coast Guard icebreaker Northwind during Operation "High Jump" in the Antarctic in 1946-1947. | Ten of these utility amphibians were given to the Coast Guard by the Navy. The aircraft shown here was attached to the Coast Guard icebreaker Northwind during Operation "High Jump" in the Antarctic in 1946-1947. A rugged airplane, the DUCK had a mind of its own during cross wind landings on a runway. These aircraft kept their Navy serial numbers. |
| 159 | Jan-01-1942 | Oos2u_3_m.jpg | Photo | Fifty three of these aircraft were flown by Coast Guard pilots during World War II, mostly on coastal anti-submarine patrols. | Fifty three of these aircraft were flown by Coast Guard pilots during World War II, mostly on coastal anti-submarine patrols. With one depth charge and a full fuel load, about all it could do was struggle into the air and stay airborne for 6 hours. Some of theses aircraft were actually OS2N-1 built under li-cense by the Naval Aircraft Factory, |
| 161 | Jan-01-1942 | Pby5a_6a_m.jpg | Photo | The photo here shows the moment of touch down on a full stall landing. | This amphibian version of the Catalina saw wide use in the Coast Guard during and after World Was II with 114 in the inventory in 1945. It did magnificent work and was employed for every conceivable mission. The photo here shows the moment of touch down on a full stall landing. |
| 265 | Jan-01-1942 | SNV_1.jpg | Photo | Vultee SNV-1 cir 1942 - 1945 | Vultee SNC-1 - Two of these "Valiant" BT-13A aircraft were purchased by the Coast GUard for $75,413 each. Better known as the VIBRATOR, it had a cruise speed of 145 knots and a stall speed of 45 knots. V222 and V223 were used for instrument training and some utility work. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R985-AN-1 engine with a Hamilton Standard two position propeller. |
| 371 | Jan-01-1942 | PBY_5_on_ramp.jpg | Photo | PBY-5 on ramp | Consolidated PBY-5 pictured on the ramp. |
| 372 | Jan-01-1942 | PBY_5A_in_flt.jpg | Photo | Catalina PBY-5A in flight | The Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina pictured in flight. |
| 374 | Jan-01-1942 | PBY_5A_water_takeoff.jpg | Photo | PBY-5A water take-off | The Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina pictured on water take-off. |
| 375 | Jan-01-1942 | PBY_cold_ops.jpg | Photo | PBY pictured in cold climes | Consolidated PBY-5A pictured in cold climes at an unknown location. |
| 376 | Jan-01-1942 | PBY_launch.jpg | Photo | PBY-5A being launched from ramp. | The Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina at head of ramp being launched. |
| 377 | Jan-01-1942 | PBY_san_diego.jpg | Photo | PBY-5A Catalina on the ramp at CGAS San Diego. | Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina on the ramp at CGAS San Diego. |
| 342 | Jul-01-1942 | salem_os2u3_water_taxi.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem OS2U3 water taxiing | |
| 354 | Jul-01-1942 | flying_boat_42.jpg | Photo | Proposal for a Coast Guard Flying Boat with twin rotors and folding blades. | Proposal for a Coast Guard Flying Boat with twin rotors and folding blades. This pgoto was found in the archives of the Coast Guard Historian, CGHQ. |
| 740 | Jul-01-1942 | Grumman_JF2_Duck_32-41_SDO07_800.jpg | Photo | Grumman Jf-2 "Duck" | Grummand JF-2 "Duck" picture courtesy CGAS San Diego through CD Ron Hiddleston |
| 754 | Jul-01-1942 | Vol_Port_Security_44_44_SDO02_800.jpg | Photo | Volunteer Port Security Force | During the war there was a Volunteer Port Security Force with a unit that was based out of CGAS San Diego. Photo courtesy CGAS San Diego through CDR Ron Huddleston. |
| 328 | Nov-01-1942 | cgas_salem_nov42_panorama.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem and surrounds panaorama view November 1942. | |
| 332 | Dec-01-1942 | dec42_os2u3_on_ramp_for_patrol.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem OS2U3 on the ramp ready for patrol. | |
| 333 | Dec-01-1942 | dec42_ramping_os2u3.jpg | Photo | Ramping OS2U3 at CGAS Salem in December 1942 | |
| 322 | Dec-17-1942 | 17_dec_42_strikers.jpg | Photo | Strikers at CGAS Salem looking over aircraft engine. | Strikers were non-schooled personnel who were trained in their rate by station personnel. |
| 101 | Jan-01-1943 | HNSS-1.jpg | Photo | Twenty one of these early helicopters were purchased by the Coast Guard at a unit price of $45,940. | Twenty one of these early helicopters were purchased by the Coast Guard at a unit price of $45,940. The Coast Guard started the first formal helicopter training school at Floyd Bennett Field in 1943. LCDR Frank Erikson, working closely with Igor Sikorsky, pioneered the development of the helicopter as a search and rescue vehicle. In 1946 the R-4 pictured here was disassembled and flown to Goose Bay, Labrador, in an R5D. It was then reassembled and used to rescue 15 Canadian airmen who had been marooned for 13 days on the frozen tundra. |
| 113 | Jan-01-1943 | Xr4_m.jpg | Photo | ||
| 125 | Jan-01-1943 | Jrb_4_m.jpg | Photo | Seven of these Beechcraft C-45 type aircraft were used by the Coast Guard mainly for administrative flying. | Seven of these Beechcraft C-45 type aircraft were used by the Coast Guard mainly for administrative flying. One specially equipped model was used to assist the Coast and Geodetic Survey in harbor mapping and photography. The one pictured here was based at Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, NC and was used primarily for administrative and proficiency flying. |
| 126 | Jan-01-1943 | N2s_3_m.jpg | Photo | Eleven of these aircraft also know as the PT-17 or Cadet, were used as proficiency training aircraft for couriers. | Eleven of these aircraft also know as the PT-17 or Cadet, were used as proficiency training aircraft for couriers. Powered by a Continental R-670 engine, it was a great aerobatic plane. They were occasionally used for search and rescue within their limited range capability. Navy versions are shown here returning to Rodd Field, Texas. |
| 138 | Jan-01-1943 | Douglas R4D.jpg | Photo | The Douglas R4D Skytrain one shown here was based at Port Angeles, WA and provided support for the Alaskan LORAN chain and Coast Guard Air Detachments at Annette Island an d Kodiak, AK. | Eight of these DC-3, C-47 transports were used by the Coast Guard for search and rescue and logistics support work. The "GOONY BIRD" was one of the most reliable of the modern transports. The one shown here was based at Port Angeles, WA and provided support for the Alaskan LORAN chain and Coast Guard Air Detachments at Annette Island an d Kodiak, AK. |
| 139 | Jan-01-1943 | R5c_1_m.jpg | Photo | Ten of these C-46 aircraft were operated by the Coast Guard. | Ten of these C-46 aircraft were operated by the Coast Guard. Stationed at Elizabeth City, NC, they were used to rush parts and personnel worldwide. Special fuselage tanks were installed for long range capability. |
| 142 | Jan-01-1943 | Stearman_m.jpg | Photo | Stearman N2S-3 | Eleven of these aircraft, also known as the PT-17 or CAYDET, were used as proficiency training aircraft for couriers. Powered by a Continental R-670 engine, it was a great acrobatic plane. They were occasionally used for search and rescue within their limited range capability. |
| 160 | Jan-01-1943 | Pbm_3g_m.jpg | Photo | The Coast Guard operated twenty seven PBM-3's and thirty six or more PBM-5's during World War II. | This Martin aircraft was powered by R2800 engines rated at 2100 HP for take off. The aircraft had a maximum speed of 196 knots at sea level, 215 mph at 19,800 feet and a cruise speed of 127 mph. The maximum gross weight at take off was 58,000 lbs. The normal range was 2490 miles with a 4000 lb fuel load. The Coast Guard operated twenty seven PBM-3's and thirty six or more PBM-5's during World War II. |
| 169 | Jan-01-1943 | Pbm_5g_m.jpg | Photo | This Martin aircraft was powered by R2800 engines rated at 2100 HP for take off. | This Martin aircraft was powered by R2800 engines rated at 2100 HP for take off. The aircraft had a maximum speed of 196 knots at sea level, 215 mph at 19,800 feet and a cruise speed of 127 mph. The maximum gross weight at take off was 58,000 lbs. The normal range was 2490 miles with a 4000 lb fuel load. The Coast Guard operated twenty seven PBM-3's and thirty six or more PBM-5's during World War II. |
| 176 | Jan-01-1943 | erickson_igor.jpg | Photo | Helo piloted by Captain Frank Erickson hoisting Dr. Igor Sikorsky at Brooklyn Air Station. | Believing in his own invention, Dr. Igor Sikorsky is hoisted here by one of his own helcopters piloted by Captain Frank Erickson, CG Helo Pilot #1. |
| 310 | Jan-01-1943 | NAS_Cape_May1943.jpg | Photo | General photo of NAS (CGAS) Cape May during WWII years 1943-1944 | |
| 632 | Jun-01-1943 | seamew.jpg | Photo | Curtiss SO3C-3 "Seamew" | Forty-eight of these Seamew scout planes were assigned to the Coast guard for ASW Patrol of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal waters during World War II. Many were elivered with wheels, but all were fitted with floats for Coast Guard use. |
| 634 | Jun-01-1943 | North American SNJ.jpg | Photo | North American SNJ-5, -6 "TEXAN" | Fifteen of these TEXAN AT-6 aoircraft were operated by the Coast Guard for proficiency, courier and administrative flying. One or two were assigned to each major Air Station. Five aircraft were used for cross-country navigation training. |
| 394 | Jul-07-1943 | Sikorsky_1st_Helo_Detachment.jpg | Photo | Helicopter Detachment at Sikorsky Aircraft, Bridgeport, Conn. | CDR Frank Erickson and crew of the first Helop detachment at the Sikorsky Aircraft Plant, Bridgeport, CT. July 7, 1943. |
| 120 | Jan-01-1944 | GH_2_m.jpg | Photo | Three of these were used by CGAS San Francisco for proficiency and instrument training. | Three of these were used by CGAS San Francisco for proficiency and instrument training. Designated UC-70 by the Air Corps, this was the civil DGA-12. The manufacturer let it be known that DGA stood for "Damn Good Airplane". |
| 132 | Jan-01-1944 | P4Y_1_m.jpg | Photo | Their long range and reliability made them an outstanding platform for extended off shore searches. | Five of these Privateers, a variant of the B-24 Liberator with twin vertical stabilizers were operated by the Coast Guard in the rapidly expanding search and rescue effort during and after World War II. Their long range and reliability made them an outstanding platform for extended off shore searches. |
| 149 | Jan-01-1944 | Pb2y_5.jpg | Photo | Four of these patrol bombers were operated by the Coast Guard during the latter part of World War II. | Four of these patrol bombers were operated by the Coast Guard during the latter part of World War II. They were used for ASW patrol and long range search and rescue. Powered by 4 Pratt and Whitney R1830 engines, this large seaplane was ideal for extended flights over the open ocean. |
| 404 | Jan-01-1944 | Widgeons, Goose, Kingfisher, Corsair.jpg | Photo | Multi-type aircraft on ram at Salem 1944 | Multi-type aircraft on ram at Salem 1944 - Widgeons, Goose, Kingfisher, and Corsair |
| 542 | Jan-15-1944 | VP-6_600.jpg | Photo | VP-6 Patrol Squadron 6 at Blui West One, Greenland | Patrol Squadron 6 was the only fully manned CG Squadron of WWII. |
| 33 | Jun-01-1944 | brooklyn01_1944.jpg | Photo | CGAS Brooklyn 1944 | CGAS Brooklyn and the helicopter training group |
| 352 | Jun-01-1944 | ww2_launch_depth_chg.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem get ready to launch a patrol during WWII - note the depth charge below the wing on the hardpoint. | |
| 537 | Jun-01-1944 | Quonset_PBY5A_1944.jpg | Photo | CGAD Quonset Point in 1944 | The Coast Guard had a full presence at NAS Quonset Point during 1944 and continue there with detachments until it was closed April 5, 1974. |
| 579 | Jun-15-1944 | helo_ship.jpg | Photo | CGC Cobb | The Coastal Packet "General Cobb" was acquired from the War Shipping Administration; had it's superstructure cut down and a 38 by 63 foot flight deck added. It became the CGC Cobb and the very first helo landing ship in the world. The first landings were on 15 June 1944. Pictured here are a Sikorsky R5(HOS) close aboard and a Sikorsky R4(HNS) to the right. |
| 738 | Jul-01-1944 | DSDiego_Main_Gate_WWII_SDO16_800.jpg | Photo | CGAS San Diego 1942-1945 | During World War II this is what the main gate at CGAS San Diego looked like. Photo courtesy CGAS San Diego through Ptero CDR Ron Huddleston. |
| 752 | Jul-01-1944 | SO3C_43_44_SDO06_800.jpg | Photo | Curtiss SO3C-3 "Seagull" | Photo of Curtiss SO3C-3 from National Archives courtesy of CGAS San Diego through CDR Ron Huddleston. |
| 16 | Aug-07-1944 | 1st_helo_sim_2_800.jpg | Photo | First helicopter synthetic training device (800 x 600 pix) | Capt Frank Erickson directed the helicopter training squadron for USN. Students from all the US armed forces plus Canadians and British. |
| 39 | Jan-01-1945 | cg-jrf-5.jpg | Photo | JRF-5 known as the Goose | Grumman JRF-5 Goose |
| 66 | Jan-01-1945 | Historic_CG_Helicopter (HS1-C).jpg | Photo | ||
| 79 | Jan-01-1945 | Ice_pat_R5D.jpg | Photo | Douglas R4D Skymaster | Pictured on Ice Patrol, the R5D's were used for International Ice Patrol, Long Range Logistics and one was outfitted for Aerial Mapping for the Coast & Geodetic Survey. |
| 80 | Jan-01-1945 | Ice_pat_R5D_2.jpg | Photo | Douglas R5D Skymaster | Pictured on Ice Patrol, the R5D's were used for International Ice Patrol, Long Range Logistics and one was outfitted for Aerial Mapping for the Coast & Geodetic Survey. |
| 107 | Jan-01-1945 | Hos1g_m.jpg | Photo | The Coast Guard purchased 27 of these R-6A helicopters which were built by Nash-Kelvintor under license from Sikorsky. | The Coast Guard purchased 27 of these R-6A helicopters which were built by Nash-Kelvintor under license from Sikorsky. A press release for the version shown stated in part&A higher powered machine than its predecessors & this copter has limitless new duties planned for it. It had a cruise speed of 75 knots, a range of 245 miles and could carry 3 people. |
| 110 | Jan-01-1945 | Hul1g_m.jpg | Photo | Bell Hul-1G | Two of these Bell model 47G helicopters were purchased and operated by the Coast Guard until december 1967. These helicopters were fitter with floats and were normally used for ice reconnaissance from flight deck equiped ships in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. They were based at CGAS Kodiak. |
| 133 | Jan-01-1945 | P4y_2g_m.jpg | Photo | ||
| 134 | Jan-01-1945 | Pb_1g_m.jpg | Photo | A modified version of the B-17 FLYING FORTRESS, carrying a droppable life boast under its bomb bay, was used by the Coast Guard for long range search and rescue. | A modified version of the B-17 FLYING FORTRESS, carrying a droppable life boast under its bomb bay, was used by the Coast Guard for long range search and rescue. Also used for International Ice Patrol and Coast and Geodetic Survey photo mapping, it was the most successful of the adapted long range search and rescue aircraft. Eighteen of these aircraft were operated by the Coast Guard. |
| 288 | Jan-01-1945 | CGAS_Salem_aerial_view.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem, MA aerial view | Aerial View of CGAS Salem |
| 289 | Jan-01-1945 | CGAS_Salem_ramp_2PBMs.jpg | Photo | PBM on ramp at CGAS Salem | PBM-5's on ramp at CGAS Salem |
| 292 | Jan-01-1945 | P4Y_privateers_4plane_formation.jpg | Photo | Convair P4Y Privateers | The Convair P4Y Privateer's pictured here in a four plane formation served the CG well for long range patrol. This is a Navy version of the "Liberator". |
| 341 | Jan-01-1945 | salem_hanger_cir_unkn.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem Hanger from an unknown date, but probably about 1945 | |
| 410 | Jan-01-1945 | HTL-1_m.jpg | Photo | Bell Helicopter | Bell Utility Helicopter |
| 91 | Mar-01-1945 | P4Y-2G.jpg | Photo | Nine of these single vertical stabilizer PB4Y-1 Liberators were operated by the Coast Guard. | Nine of these single vertical stabilizer PB4Y-1 Liberators were operated by the Coast Guard. Their long range capability and reliability made them particularly suitable for over the ocean. Based at San Francisco and Barbers Point, Hawaii, they spent many thousand hours over the Pacific. |
| 324 | Apr-01-1945 | apr45_pby_current_asr_paint.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem PBY in current (1945) air sea rescue paint scheme. | |
| 529 | May-01-1945 | argentiaNAS_1945.jpg | Photo | NAS Argentia (CGAD Argentia) | Aerial view of NAS Argentia circa 1945 - one of the few clear days. |
| 325 | Jun-01-1945 | cgas_salem_1945.jpg | Photo | CGAS Salem aerial view 1945 | |
| 635 | Jun-01-1945 | Curtiss SB2C.jpg | Photo | Curtiss SB2C | Only 2 of these Curtiss SB2C Navy Scout bomber HELLDIVERS were operated by the Coast Guard. They were tested for fast dash to a crash or ditching to drop rafts and rations. Powered by a Wright R2600-8 engine, they had a dsash speed of close to 230 knots. |
| 506 | Jul-01-1945 | kaneohe01.jpg | Photo | CGAD Kaneohe | T.B.D. |
| 507</ |