Theodore Ellyson become first U.S. Navy Pilot

June 30, 1911: Commander Theodore Ellyson becomes the first U.S. Navy Pilot when he flew the first plane purchased by the U.S. Navy at Keuka Lake, near Hammondsport, NY.

The airplane, a Curtiss model E-8-75, was designated A-1 by the Navy. It operated as a seaplan. The originally purchased plane was outfitted with a large central pontoon and outriggers under the wings. It and was manufactured by the Curtiss Aeroplane Company. It had a top speed of 65 mph, powered by a 75 hp, V-8 engine.

The  A-1 was the first of 14 E type fliers ordered by the Navy. leading the development of aviation in the U.S. Navy, including the first catapult launch of a seaplane. The Curtiss Aeroplane Company would be the the major provider of airplanes for the First World War.