Richmond, Virginia

Inducted in 1996, Commander Theodore G. Ellyson graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1905.  He took flying lessons from the pioneer aviator Glenn Curtiss in January 1911 and became U.S. Naval Aviator #1.  His flying career distinctions include: first night flight in a Navy airplane in 1911, first long-distance flight by a Navy airman in 1911 (112 miles in two hours and two minutes - a nonstop distance record for hydroplanes), first successful catapult launch in 1912, first Executive Officer of the Hampton Roads Naval Air Station in 1921, first Naval Officer enshrined in the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1964, developed a successful sub chaser tactic and doctrine, and received the Navy Cross during WWI.  Commander Ellyson had a Navy destroyer, mine sweeper, and auxiliary airfield at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, FL named after him in recognition of his efforts for the development, dignity and tradition he brought to Naval Aviation.