Crusty old Joe's
Kodiak Alaska Military History
The official web site of the Kodiak Military History Museum
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Capt. Wm. M. McDade, USN
Born - 11 August 1894
Wife's maiden name - Ellen Kenney
Children - William Clayton McDade, born 11 August 1933.
Captain W. M. McDade, Commander of this base, has served aboard 16
vessels and at 6 shore stations since entering the Navy in March 1913.
The Captain, who attended Mississippi State College prior to his first
enlistment, later re-entered school to complete his studies for a
degree in electrical engineering. his first combat experience came with
the occupation of Vera Cruz in April, 1914.
At our entry into World War 1, Captain McDade re-enlisted in the Navy. He started his upward climb as a naval officer in 1917 when he was promoted to Warrant Gunner; the next year he was commissioned ensign. Most of his experience in World War 1 was in convoy duty. In 1924, Captain McDade entered naval aviation. From a Flag Lieutenant to an Operations Officer to an Executive Office to Commanding Officer of the VP-6, was accomplshed within nine years time.
In January of 1937, the Captain commanded a trans-Pacific flight of twelve PBY-1 airplanes from San Diego to Hawaii. From 1937 to 1938, he was Commanding Officer of VO Squadron 2; from 1938 - 1939 he was Air Officer aboard the USS WRIGHT; from 1939-40 he was navigating Officer aboard the USS PATOKA.
In 1940, Captain McDade became a test pilot with Consolidated Aircraft for Navy planes. The next year he assumed command of the Transisition Training Squadron, Pacific. Captain McDade's last assignment before coming to Kodiak was Commander, Fleet Air Wing 14.
Captain McDade has served on the USS HANCOCK, Seattle, VERMONT, CONNECTICUT, OHIO, NORTH DAKOTA, MICHIGAN, FLORIDA, CHESTER, ROCHESTER, AROOSTOOK, LANGLEY, SARATOG, LEXINGTON, WRIGHT, AND PATOKA during the sea-going part of his noted career.
His longest period at sea was from Gibraltar to Hampton Roads - 29 days. His longest flight - 30 hours, 30 minutes; Lieut. Plymire, now at this base (is pilot now with NATS VR-5) with VR-5 was his copilot. Capt. McDade's total flying time, 3111 (as of 15 Dec. '44). On the establishment of the 17th Naval District 15 April 1944, Capt. McDade was designated Assistant Commandant of the Newly established District.
http://www.kadiak.org/navy/mcdade.html This page updated 2002 June 13
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