Publisher's Synopsis
In June 1963, in front of more than 60,000 people who crowded the Point Mugu tarmac, President John F. Kennedy said, "I go back to Washington with the feeling of renewed pride in being an American and renewed confidence in being a citizen of the greatest republic on earth." A day later, President Kennedy flew to China Lake for a brief tour, where thousands also came to see their president. "I cannot think of a prouder statement when asked what our occupation may be than to say 'I serve the United States of America, '" stated the president. His words touched the hearts of all those in attendance. Through the years, naval projects and missions have changed, but pride in serving this country has not. The people employed at China Lake and Point Mugu are reminded of the history within the walls of their many laboratories. Through the hallways, echoes of the past precede the sounds of the present, telling us to build on the past's lessons and trials, failures and successes. Nothing should remain stagnant, and, in today's world of uncertainty and crisis, the military is one area where we must continue to advance to protect our country and give our warfighters a decisive advantage over our enemies. The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) has made countless contributions to our warfighters. This publication highlights many of them-describing our support in all major military conflicts beginning with World War II, discussing many weapons developed or supported, and illustrating the many technologies invented. This publication could not possibly include every project in which NAWCWD has been involved throughout its illustrious history. Therefore, only its most noteworthy achievements have been cited. Regardless of the task or mission, our workforce is proud to say, "I serve the United States of America.
