The Willow Grove Naval Air Station began in 1926 when Harold Pitcairn constructed a hanger and a grass airstrip in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.

From 1926 to 1942 he used the airfield for design, development, construction and testing of a number of aircraft, including the Airwing which was put into use by the United States Postal Service.

After the start of World War II, the United States purchased the grounds, and launched a classified anti-submarine warfare program at the base.

Following the war it became a reserve training station, a duty it continues to this day.