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Naval History and Heritage Command
Today in Naval History
February 22
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Year at a Glance
1974 - Lt. j.g. Barbara Ann (Allen) Rainey becomes the first Navy designated female aviator.
On This Day

1909

The Great White Fleet returns to Hampton Roads, Va., following its 14-month round-the-world cruise.

1943

USS Iowa (BB-61), the lead ship of the last class of American fast battleships, is commissioned.

1944

U.S. Navy Task Group (TG) 39.4, commanded by Capt. Arleigh Burke, bombards Japanese airstrips, pier area, and anchorages at Kavieng, New Ireland Island, while DESRON 12 shells Rabaul.

1945

USS Becuna (SS 319) sinks Japanese merchant tanker Nichiyoku Maru off Cape Padaran Bay despite the presence of two escort vessels.

1974

Lt. j.g. Barbara Ann (Allen) Rainey becomes the first Navy designated female aviator.