USS Macon (ZRS-5) - Early Service History

Early Service History

Departing the East Coast on October 12, Macon's homefield became Naval Air Station (NAS) Sunnyvale (now Moffett Federal Airfield) in Santa Clara County, California. The Macon had a far more productive career than the earlier crashed Akron. Macon's commanders developed the doctrine and techniques of using the aircraft carried on board to do scouting while the airship remained out of sight of the opposing forces during exercises. Macon participated in several fleet exercises, though the men who framed and conducted the exercises lacked an understanding of the airship's capabilities and weaknesses. It became standard practice to remove the Sparrowhawk's landing gear aboard the airship and replace it with a fuel tank, giving the aircraft 30% more range.

Later in 1934, Lieutenant Commander Herbert Wiley surprised President Franklin D. Roosevelt—and the Navy—when Macon searched for—and located—the heavy cruiser Houston, which was then carrying the President back from a trip to Hawaii. Newspapers were dropped to the President on the ship, and the following communications were sent back to the airship: "from Houston: 1519 The President compliments you and your planes on your fine performance and excellent navigation 1210 and 1519 Well Done and thank you for the papers the President 1245."

The commander of the Fleet—Admiral Joseph M. Reeves—was upset about the matter; however, Commander of the Bureau of Aviation—Admiral Ernest J. King—was not. Wiley—one of only three survivors of Akron's crash—was soon promoted to Commander, and in time became a Rear Admiral.