Community

OUR COMMUNITY
Naval Air Station Oceana and Dam Neck Annex are located within the city limits of the world's largest resort city; Virginia Beach, Va., giving station and squadron personnel the opportunities afforded by a resort area. The leading summer attraction at Virginia Beach is the six miles of sandy beach lined by a boardwalk.

Virginia Beach offers an exciting variety of recreational opportunities throughout the year. During the summer, the sand beaches of Virginia Beach and Dam Neck Annex offer excellent swimming and sun bathing. There is golfing, tennis and horseback riding along shore or woodland bridle paths. One may go sailing, surfing, water skiing or just strolling along miles of boardwalk. By night, the entertainment spectrum includes classical music concerts and little theatre performances, as well as nightclubs, jazz and discotheques.

The Virginia Beach area is also a paradise for the sportsman who enjoys hunting and fishing. Located in the mainstream of the Atlantic Flyway, Back Bay is a migrating stopover for many varieties of waterfowl and hunters come by thousands for game birds in such numbers that they actually cover the bays at times. Back Bay marshes also provide plenty of sporting excitement for deer, fox, opossum, raccoon and rabbit hunters.

Four different kinds of game fishing are available. First there are charter trips into the Atlantic's Calf Stream where record catches wait along the continental shelf. Next, inshore waters boast the all time sport fishing records of channel bass, cobra and black drum. Also, you can stay on land and fish from a pier, stand in the foaming surf and cast for offshore runners or go crabbing in the Chesapeake Bay. Finally the Back Bay region lakes and streams are havens for all kinds of freshwater fish. A license is required to take or attempt to take any wild bird or wild animal, and also for freshwater fishing. None is required for saltwater fishing.

U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE,
BACK BAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
The Virginia Beach area showcases one of the most spectacular National Wildlife Refuges in Virginia, Back Bay Refuge. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located on the Atlantic Coast in the southeastern corner of Virginia. The Refuge is an important link in the system of National Wildlife Refuges administered by the Department of the Interior's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Situated on a thin strip of coastline, Back Bay Refuge contains more than 7,700 acres of beach, dunes, woodlands and marshlands. Much of the productive marshland consists of many islands within the waters of Back Bay. These islands have excellent habitat for waterfowl. Over 250 bird species may be observed on the Refuge throughout the year. Many migratory ducks and geese may be observed during the months of October through February. An additional 4,600 acres of Back Bay waters within the Refuge boundary have been closed to migratory bird hunting since 1939 by presidential proclamation.

Traveling inland from the Atlantic Ocean to the northern basin of Back Bay, Refuge visitors will encounter the barrier beach. A barrier beach is a line of fragile sand dunes with marshlands existing behind the protective dunes. In several locations, woody vegetation is invading the marsh and in some areas woodlands have developed. A variety of plant and animal life can be found in these diverse habitats.

More than 100,000 visitors come to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge each year. A variety of wildlife-oriented activities are available on the Refuge. Some of the activities are hiking, biking, nature photography, wildlife observation, salt and freshwater fishing, non-motorized boating and environmental education. These types of recreational activities are encouraged in the refuge insofar as it does not interfere with the primary function of the area—to serve as a sanctuary for waterfowl and wildlife. Visitors come to enjoy the unique beauty of the area, to learn about wildlife, and to participate in environmental education and wildlife-oriented recreation. Because wildlife needs to have priority on a wildlife refuge, visitors may encounter seasonal closures and special regulations during a visit.

The Bay trail, Dune trails, Seaside trails and Sand Bay observation boardwalk/platform are four trails that meander through Refuge environments. Outdoor trails and facilities on the Refuge are open daily from dawn to dusk. A bike trail extends through the Refuge over four miles to False Cape State Park. Access is by biking or hiking and vehicles are prohibited. A seasonal dike road trail closure is in effect from November through March. This is required for management of impoundment's used by migratory birds and prevents disturbances as the bird's rest and feed. Visitors may travel through the Refuge to False Cape State Park in the electric tram. Reservations and cost may be obtained by calling (757) 498-BIRD (2473). Please call Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for additional information at (757) 721-2412.

The Virginia Beach oceanfront is a popular beach resort attracting thousands of tourists during the summer months. There are two very fine beaches for military and their dependents located at Fleet Combat Direction Systems Training Center, Dam Neck Naval Installation, which is five miles southeast of Oceana. An Officers' beach is located at 67th Street and Atlantic Avenue.

FLAME OF HOPE MEMORIAL/ JET OBSERVATION PARK
The Flame of Hope Memorial is located on Oceana Boulevard just outside the main gate. The park is dedicated to the memory of Prisoners of War, Missing in Action and those killed in the service of their country. The Flame of Hope itself is lit at all times to light the way for these brave young service members to find their way home. The park is situated in such a position that it affords visitors an excellent advantage for photographing and viewing Oceana jet aircraft as they take off and land. The park includes picnic tables for use by the general public.

AVIATION HISTORICAL PARK
Located just inside the Main Gate is the Aviation Historical Park with 13 aircraft from the past and the latest strike/fighter jet on display. The park is open every day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RICHMOND
Nearby is Richmond, the Capitol of the Confederacy and today, the Capitol of Virginia. Today it houses a number of intriguing monuments and relics from its storied past: colonial-era buildings, Civil War monuments and southern plantations. Former home to Edgar Allen Poe, dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson and tennis star Arthur Ashe, it offers both scenic, historic and shopping opportunities unsurpassed anywhere in the Old Dominion.

CHARLOTTESVILLE
It was near Charlottesville, Va., that Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, built his dream home and named it Monticello. Not only was this architectural masterpiece of Jefferson's design, but the nearby campus of the University of Virginia reflects much of his influence. From the winding walks on the campus to the university library, built as a rotunda, indicates that the architect clearly was Jefferson.

STAUNTON
Traveling further west, the tourist discovers the Shenandoah Valley, with its rolling hills covering giant caverns and underground streams. The city of Staunton, queen city of the valley, is located in the center of the valley and prides itself as being the birthplace of Woodrow Wilson. His home is open daily. Traveling south of Staunton, the series of natural phenomena makes one feel that nature collected beauty and deposited it here. Natural Bridge, a sheer rock arch has been carved by nature for thousands of years, offering a breathtaking view.

Nearby are other historical sites including the City of Lexington, the homes of Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas J. (Stonewall) Jackson. Both are buried there and many of their memorabilia are on display daily, including Traveler, Lee's faithful steed. All around, the names of towns ring with historical significance: McDowell, Clifton Forge and Waynesboro are all waiting for inspection by the Oceana tourist.

Virginia offers diversified facilities to tent and trailer campers. There are over 250 state-approved campgrounds and more are being added each year; in the mountains, by the ocean and bay, along rivers, lakes and streams, in wooded areas and in open country. The Shenandoah National Park features the famous Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway and more than 300 square miles of wonderfully scenic wilderness playgrounds. There are more than a dozen state parks throughout the state, from the seashore to the mountains, offering swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, camping and hiking.

WILLIAMSBURG
In 1699, the capitol of the English colony moved to nearby Williamsburg and built a beautiful city. Here, the adolescent government of the colony began to mature as the representatives from across Virginia met at the House of Burgesses. It was there that Patrick Henry protested against the stamp tax and was accused of treason, thus sparking the American Revolution. Ravaged by time and war, the colonial City of Williamsburg gave way to decay. Throughout the years, 88 buildings were built on original foundations forming the historical area of 173 acres.

A visitor to Williamsburg may browse through the 17th Century taverns and view the city from the gardens of the governor's mansion. Horse-drawn coaches are available for real colonial transportation, and costumed guides supply a wealth of information about the various building and activities. In Williamsburg, the tourist is afforded a great anthology of colonial history all within an afternoon's drive.

TOURING
The Commonwealth of Virginia offers to the military family or individual a vivid course in the history of the South, the War Between the States and the American Revolution. Historical sites for these conflicts are all within a weekend driving distances of Oceana Naval Air Station.

Following their original landing at Cape Henry in 1607, the passengers of the three tiny ships the Susan Constant, the Godspeed and the Discovery set up a base camp on "James Town island," which later became the site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World. Located just 65 miles from Oceana Naval Air Station, the remains of that settlement is waiting to be viewed by military personnel and their families, offering prime subjects for photography. From the shores and flat land of the east to the memory-worn mountains of the Blue Ridge, sheltering the Beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the state is a haven for tourists.

ASSOCIATION OF NAVAL AVIATION
The Association of Naval Aviation is a professional, non-profit, educational and fraternal society of Naval Aviation whose main purpose is to educate the public and our national leaders on the vital roles of Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Aviation as key elements of our national defense posture. ANA continuously seeks to define the key issues impacting Naval Aviation through published writings, symposia, speeches and discussions with various interest groups. ANA also seeks to foster the strong pride, esprit and fraternal bonds, which exist among those involved in Naval Aviation.
The national headquarters of ANA is located in Alexandria, Va., which allows the organization to stay abreast of programs and policies that affect Naval Aviation. The Association also has 63 regional squadrons as well as squadrons in Italy, Malta, France and Australia. Among the largest and most active units is the Hampton Roads squadron (HRANA) which incorporates the military area of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Williamsburg and the Northern Neck of Virginia. HRANA hosts many social functions and enjoys a vigorous guest speaker program throughout the year, publishes a monthly newsletter and hosts the National ANA Convention every four years.

Those desiring information about or are interested in participating in the Hampton Roads Squadron, log on to http://www.HRANA.org.

NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA AIR SHOW
NAS Oceana provides an action-packed weekend for the entire family every September with its award winning Air Show. Showcasing the world's finest aviators, the Air Show features acts such as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Dale Snodgrass, U.S. Navy Leap Frog Parachute Team and much more. The Air Show also features golf tournaments, live music, fireworks and fun entertainment for kids of all ages.

AREA POINTS OF INTEREST
USS WISCONSIN
The USS Wisconsin moored at Nauticus, The National Maritime Center, and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum in downtown Norfolk on Pearl Harbor Commemoration Day, Dec. 7, 2000. The Wisconsin is to be the centerpiece in a four-part exhibit featuring the battleship's role in U.S. naval history and also as an example of the relationship between the Navy and the Hampton Roads area.

NAUTICUS, THE NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER
Journey through the world's oceans at Nauticus, The National Maritime Center, a 120,000-square-foot, multi-level maritime showcase. Featuring more than 150 exhibits including computer and video interactives, commerce and military-related displays, and exotic aquaria, Nauticus offers a fun and exciting educational experience for all ages.

THE HAMPTON ROADS NAVAL MUSEUM
Exhibits trace the history of the United States Navy in Hampton Roads from the Revolutionary War through the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The National Maritime Center is in downtown Norfolk, located on the second floor of Nauticus. The museum is open daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Between January and early March, the ship is open for limited periods during the day. All other times of the year it is closed on Monday, open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information call, (757) 322-2987. http://www.hrnm.navy.mil

ARMY TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM, FORT EUSTIS
The Army Transportation Museum is devoted entirely to the history of U.S. Army transportation from colonial days to present. It offers a unique glimpse of the importance of logistical support to the Army, and is a must when visiting the Virginia Peninsula. The museum is open daily, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except Monday and federal holidays. The gift shop inside the museum offers a large variety of transportation-related gifts, souvenirs, t-shirts, toys, books and models. Admission is free, and plenty of parking is available.

FIRST LANDING CROSS
AND LIGHTHOUSE, FORT STORY
The Cape Henry Memorial cross marks the landing of the first permanent settlers in 160, who eventually founded Jamestown. The original stone lighthouse was the first authorized by the First U.S. Congress. Completed in 1792, it is the third oldest lighthouse still standing in the U.S. and is the oldest on the Chesapeake Bay. The newer lighthouse was built in 1881, only 357 feet to the southeast and is still in use.

MACARTHUR MEMORIAL, NORFOLK
Nine separate galleries arranged in two levels circle the rotunda and tell the story of General MacArthur and the millions of American men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces from the Civil War through the Korean War. The Memorial's theater contains several special exhibit galleries and continuously shows a twenty-four minute film on the life and times of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, one of the most colorful and controversial men in American history. The gift shop displays General MacArthur's 1950 Chrysler Imperial limousine, which he used from 1950 to the end of his life. The museum proper is housed in Norfolk's stately nineteenth century City Hall. A monumental rotunda is the General and Mrs. MacArthur's final resting place where they are surrounded by inscri ptions, banners and flags heralding the general's long and glorious career. The MacArthur Memorial is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed New Year's, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission is free. http://www.macarthurmemorial.org.

SEASHORE STATE PARK
This 2,770-acre park at 64th Street on U.S. Highway 60 contains more than 400 types of plants and trees and a network of trails. It is open year-round with no admission charge.

VIRGINIA BEACH MARITIME HISTORICAL MUSEUM
This museum, a former Coast Guard station, contains ship models, scrimshaw and an exhibit of the wreck of the Dictator. The museum is located at 24th Street and oceanfront, $1.50 for adults, $1 for active duty military and $.50 for children.

OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST
The Hermitage Foundation, the Mariners' Museum, ANA Memorial, the Myers House, Norfolk Naval Base, the Peninsula Nature and Science Center, the Adam Thoroughgood House, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the Chrysler Museum of Norfolk, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, Gardens-by the Sea and the Virginia Air and Space Museum/Hampton History Center.  read more...

---