Regarding the “whiners” on Whidbey Island objecting to the noise of NAS Whidbey’s Growlers, Oak Harbor is Whidbey Island’s largest incorporated city. The city’s growth coincided with two major events: the construction of Deception Pass Bridge on July 31, 1935, and the completion of Naval Air Station Whidbey on Sept. 21, 1942, for land-based and sea-based patrols. NAS Whidbey Island became the Navy’s primary air patrol station and home.
NAS Whidbey supports approximately 8,400 military personnel with an additional 18,500 family members, over 10,000 retirees, 500-plus reservists, and 2,100 civilian employees. They also support over 30 Canadian forces and their families.
Since 1942, the many up-to-date technological improvements to the latest aircraft and its components. In January 2009, VAQ-129 accepted its first Boeing EA-18G Growler aircraft. Based on the Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet, the Growler has replaced the Navy’s EA-6Bs. Let’s face it, they are noisy; but as the sign outside of the base states: It is “the sound of freedom.” The Pacific NW’s military presence is foremost in providing the best of the best. But for those who hate the sound, before you bought or rented on Whidbey Island, you were fully aware of the implications of the military.
Living in Oak Harbor offers residents a dense suburban feel. In Oak Harbor there are a lot of coffee shops and parks. Many families and young professionals live in Oak Harbor and residents tend to have moderate political views. The public schools in Oak Harbor are above average.
NAS Whidbey is a great economical boost for Whidbey Island.
Sam Cheyne
Marysville
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