At the turn of the 20th century, we only had a humble US Navy coaling station. Today, our city of Jacksonville has grown alongside the military power defending America’s coastlines. What began as a single pier has transformed Jacksonville’s St. Johns Riverfront into an economic dynamo.
Let’s hoist the sails of discovering Jacksonville’s rich maritime heritage, preserved through museums, historic monuments, and tributes to those lost at sea.
Tracing Tides Of Naval History In Jacksonville
Situated along the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, FL, there is a long and proud tradition of welcoming the United States Navy. Since its inception, various installations have called Northeast Florida home. These venerable sites support military operations and excite the community to honor those who serve.
Through tours, exhibits, and special programs, they illuminate the people and events important to our region’s maritime legacy. To view the naval base of Jacksonville, FL’s past, present, and future, let us explore the following notable naval attractions.
Sightseeing The USS Orleck
Step aboard the now docked-in downtown Jacksonville, USS Orleck and explore over 40 years of naval history. Commissioned in 1945 at the end of World War II, this ship served admirably in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. It fired over 11,000 rounds into battle.
Exhibits Dedicated To The Fallen
You must take a self-guided audio tour across its four decks and hear real accounts from sailors who served this “Grey Ghost of the Vietnam Coast.” Once there, peek inside the living quarters and the combat information center. There are exhibits that honor the brave 14 service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Scenic Views From The Shelter Deck
When not touring, relax in the shelter deck and view civilian and military vessels passing along the river. Be sure to check the museum’s online calendar as well. Special events like their popular Cabaret Nights and car shows entertain on the pier.
Admission Details And Tour Hours
Admission supports preserving this historic landmark. Current hours include self-guided tours available Wednesday through Sunday until 3 p.m. weekends, with the last boarding 30 minutes prior. You should look forward to seeing this tribute to those who went gently into the night.
Experiencing The Pulse Of the Fleet At Naval Station Mayport
Just a short drive from downtown is the beating heart of Jacksonville, FL’s naval operations – Naval Station Mayport. As the third largest base of its kind in the US, it covers 3,400 acres and has supported fleet readiness since World War II.
Spying the Stately Carriers
The grey hulls of guided missile cruisers and destroyers are on its bustling docks. They work hard to maintain maritime safety. But its biggest stars are the giant aircraft carriers who call Mayport their temporary home between tours of duty. Imagine gazing upon the traps of these airfields towering above the St. Johns!
Learning Mayport’s Tales
Intrigued sailors can learn more about Mayport’s history and current activities through displays during special events when visitors are allowed to tour the base. Scheduled tours during these special events might even give you selective access to some areas and chat with the brave crews keeping watch over America’s coastline. Be sure to check their website for upcoming dates and special events.
Taking Flight At NAS Jacksonville
Since 1940, the runways of NAS Jacksonville have launched generations of aviators soaring across the globe. In its earliest days, it trained World War II pilots. Today, it has come quite far to test advanced aircraft. This riverside installation has been indispensable in the evolution of naval aviation.
Aviation History At Heritage Park
Aviation fans will love Heritage Park, housing over 30 restored planes in the open air. Peer inside their preserved cockpits to catch a glimpse of flyboys of past eras. Interactive exhibits tell the story of aviators and squadrons who cut their teeth here before joining fleets. Civilians may enter as guests of a Navy member or with a special pass.
The Legacy Of The Blue Angels
But perhaps nothing stirs a patriotic pulse like the base’s most celebrated team of pilots – the Blue Angels. Learn how this crowd-pleasing troupe of pilots began right here in the late 50s. And be sure not to miss out on their amazing air show appearances that occur yearly in Jacksonville. Their story displays how skill and daring will forever shape air power.
Honoring Heroes Of The Past
As visitors explore Jacksonville, FL, you find subtle signs of the city’s rich history around every corner. Among the lively waterfront and busy streets, there are sites that pay tribute to those who sacrificed everything for freedom. Here are two prominent locations preserving legacies of patriotism for future generations to appreciate.
Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall
Located downtown near EverBank Field, this solemn black granite monument bears over 1,700 names of local sons and daughters lost in wars since 1917. On memorial occasions, gold star families can honor loved ones inscribed here for defending our nation.
Memorial Park
The renowned Olmsted Brothers architects designed Jacksonville’s popular Memorial Park, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This peaceful green space within Riverside honors World War I veterans. You should stroll through plazas and read inscription stones that chronicle the service of those who fought for our freedom.
Now, take a moment to reflect on these revered sites, preserving the courage of the past. Though decades may pass, Jacksonville, FL, clearly remembers the freedom we enjoy today through others’ sacrifices.
Saluting The Jacksonville’s Brave Soldier
It is quite evident that daily military service activities often go unseen. However, two major Jacksonville naval celebrations put patriotism on display. Join the exciting flyovers or march alongside heroes down city streets to celebrate the bravery of servicemen and women.
Jacksonville Air Show
Whether held downtown or at the beach, this event features Blue Angel jets and other skilled pilots. They perform jaw-dropping acrobatics that push aeronautical limits. Official pages list dates for this spectacular extravaganza that stirs souls with bravery seen from miles away.
Veterans Day Parade
This one is Florida’s grandest Veteran’s parade. Fills Jacksonville’s streets with proud servicemen, historic military vehicles, and stirring musical performances. It’s a day where locals wave flags, march alongside heroes, and express gratitude for the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms.
Undergoing Adventures Alongside Jacksonville Naval Mariners
Jacksonville’s waterways provide enriching ways to appreciate surrounding armed forces from the sea. So why not explore and delight in experiences of a lifetime?
Sublime Rides Charters
Set sail on your own private charter around Mayport, where the captain will be happy to bring you alongside the base to view the massive ships. You might even spot aircraft carriers and submarines in action.
Fishing And Paddling Near Naval Bases
Fish or paddle in the creeks and oceanfront near bases like Mayport. Bring along kayaks to glimpse runway drills and patrols up close from the waves. Picnic in nearby parks or at the beach for a relaxing day and the perfect way to spot a bit of military history.
Conclusion
We hope these naval insights around our awesome city of Jacksonville have you itching to set sail on adventures of your own. There’s truly no better place to salute the brave than amongst our watery surroundings. So, prepare your vessels (or charter with us), pack a lunch and your cameras/phones. We bid you bon voyage!
