San Diego Naval Shipyard and Air Station

Established in 1910 by Glenn H. Curtiss, a rival of the Wright Brothers, the San Diego Naval Shipyard and Air Station on the North Island section of San Diego has long played an important role in U.S. military history.  This 5,000 acre complex is the headquarters for 6 major military flag staffs including: Commander Naval Air Force; Commander Third Fleet, responsible for the defense of the western approaches to the US and the direction of joint, combined, intertype and fleet exercises in the eastern Pacific; US Pacific Fleet, responsible for maintenance and training of all naval aircraft and aircraft carriers in the Pacific Fleet; Commanders Carrier Group One and Seven; and, Commanders Cruiser Destroyer Group One and Five. 

The U.S. Army assumed control of this privately-owned location in 1917 after joining the allied forces of World War I. The Navy moved in around 1919, too late to help with the war effort.  By the mid-1920s, however, North Island had established itself as the home port for Pacific Fleet carriers, beginning with the USS Langley.  This location also began providing service and training to the personnel of these carriers.

The Army was asked to close their Rockwell Field and vacate North Island in 1937, turning the entire island over to the Navy.  During World War II, North Island was the major continental U.S. base supporting the operating forces in the Pacific.  The site became a separate command known as the Naval Air Rework Facility in 1969, and changed to its current name in 1987.

Today, the Naval Aviation Depot is the largest aerospace employer in San Diego. A Navy Submarine Support facility also occupies nearly 300 acres on North Island.   In 2002, a new wharf was constructed at this location to support nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.

Those who worked at the San Diego Naval Shipyard prior to the mid 1970s may have been exposed to asbestos and asbestos-containing materials, used in abundance in war vessels and other naval ships.  Pipe coverings, wall insulation, gaskets, turbines, cement, and pumps often contained asbestos and the handling of this equipment, especially when damaged, may have resulted in inhalation of fibers.

If you’ve been diagnosed with Mesothelioma and you were employed at this location, it’s essential that you understand the legal rights associated with this disease.  For more information, take a moment to send for our Mesothelioma Resource Kit, available from this website.