MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR,Calif. -- Many men and women have fought and died for the American way of life. Some of them have lost their own lives to save their brothers in arms. In honor of many fallen heroes, streets, camps and airfields on military installations worldwide are named after them in commemoration of their sacrifices, and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar is no exception. The airfield and the street that leads to it from the front gate on MCAS Miramar are both named after a known naval officer, Adm. Marc A. Mitscher.In 1955, MCAS Miramar belonged to the Navy and was known as Naval Air Station Miramar. During this year, NAS Miramar named their airfield after Mitscher, eight years after his death.The airfield was named after Mitscher based on his involvement in San Diego County as well as his contributions to Naval Aviation.Mitscher was awarded the Navy Cross, the Navy’s highest award for valor, when the Navy tried to be the first to fly across the Atlantic. Mitscher was one of the pilots for the three aircraft squadron that attempted the feat.Due to harsh weather, he and his wingmen were forced down into heavy seas. For the attempt he received the award. His disappointment in not achieving his goal made his drive grow, which resulted in many accomplishments for naval aviation, according to http://www.history.navy.mil.“At that time it was real significant for the airfield and Mitscher,” said Thomas Q. O’Hara, curator, Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation and Aviation Museum, MCAS Miramar, and former Marine. “Sometimes it’s hard to find ways to commemorate people.“A lot of people think as a leader you have to go running around yelling and screaming,” O’Hara added. “But there’s a human side to leadership and Mitscher had it.”One of Mitscher’s most known contributions to naval aviation is his development of the carrier task force. During World War II, aircraft carriers operated alone. But Mitscher changed the operating procedures to make carriers work together. The forces that Mitscher commanded eventually controlled the sea and air from America to Japan, according to the Web site. “He was an extremely accomplished commander in aviation whose task force was responsible for shooting down many Japanese aircraft,” said O’Hara. “His skills and talents enabled him to accomplish the mission as well as earn the respect of his subordinates.”Mitscher was also known for his concern for the airmen’s welfare and well-being. One incident Mitscher disobeyed orders to ensure a safe landing for incoming aircraft. He ordered the ships in his fleet to go to full illumination during the night so the fatigued pilots could see where they could land. “I think it’s good and respectful that one of the most prominent characters in naval aviation is recognized by naming the airfielfd after him,” said Navy Lt. Jon D. Champine, aerospace physiologist, Aviation Survival Training Center, MCAS Miramar.