Navy Park Salutes Naval Heroes and NAS Olathe, KS

By Carmelo Turdo

Any trip through the Midwest should include a visit to Navy Park at New Century AirCenter in Olathe, KS.  The park includes a trio of U.S. Navy Aircraft - A-7E Corsair II, TA-7C Corsair II and A-4L Skyhawk - the Skyhawk type having served at NAS Olathe formerly on the site.  NAS Olathe was operational from 1942 to 1970, having trained pilots for World War II and Korean War service.  In later years, naval fighters such as the Skyray and Crusader could be seen thundering from the base.  Today, the airport hosts the KS Army National Guard CH-47 Chinooks.

The park contains several memorials to Admiral James H. Flatley, commanding officer of NAS Olathe from 1950-1952, and to those who were killed or missing in action during the Korean War.  The winding walkway leading from the aircraft display to the memorials contains original street signs from NAS Olathe in the name of those who lost their lives in service to the nation.   The memorials and the beautiful landscaping are a fine tribute to those who served at NAS Olathe.