Who was the Navy's first aviator?

The Navy's first aviator was Lieutenant Theodore Gordon Ellyson, recognized for his pioneering contributions to naval aviation. Ellyson earned this distinction by becoming the first officer in the United States Navy to qualify as a naval aviator. His training involved flying the early naval aircraft during a period when aviation was just beginning to emerge as a significant component of military operations.

Ellyson’s accomplishments laid the foundation for future developments in naval aviation, making his role crucial in the Navy’s history. His dedication and achievements in the early 20th century helped establish the protocols and practices that would shape naval flying for years to come. This background and the significant impact he had on military aviation highlight why he is regarded as the Navy's first aviator.