Whiting Field is the busiest Naval Air Station in the world, responsible for an estimated 46 percent of the Chief of Naval Air Training Command's total flight time and over 10 percent of Navy and Marine Corps total flight time. Over 1,200 personnel complete their essential flight training here yearly.

Known as the "Canoe Capital of Florida," Milton, originally a trading post on the Blackwater River, was established in 1825. Eventually becoming the county seat in 1843, it was incorporated in 1844, the year before Florida became a state. Milton, named in honor of Governor John Milton, has been known by many names throughout the years. Its most celebrated is Scratch Ankle; named for the briars on the riverbanks that visitors had to negotiate upon disembarking their vessels.

The Whiting Field/Milton area is noted for its pleasant overall quality of life and relaxed atmosphere. Within driving distance are national parks, historic sites and the sugar-white beaches along the famous Gulf Shores of the Florida Panhandle.

A sincere and cordial "Welcome Aboard" is extended to you. This directory is primarily designed to acquaint you with the facilities and services available both on and off station in the Whiting Field/Milton/Pensacola areas.

Be sure to visit the NAS Whiting Field homepage at www.cnet.navy.mil/naswf.

NAS Whiting Field is approximately 30 miles (45 minutes) from Pensacola Regional Airport. Refer to the 'blue pages' of this guide for a map to Whiting Field. It is located approximately eight miles north of Milton, Fla.

Personnel reporting aboard Whiting Field are advised to contact their sponsor in advance to arrange transportation to Whiting Field from either the Pensacola Regional Airport or local bus station. If no transportation arrangements have been made, report to the USC Information Center, located on the 2nd deck of the Regional Airport for assistance.

While traveling through the central and northern parts of the county, you can observe many restored historic buildings that now serve as museums, residences, offices and businesses; many of which are open to the public. Although few original landmarks remain, the influence of the early settlers and local Indian tribes is still seen in names of streets and areas in Santa Rosa County.