Joe Devane

The **USS Norton Sound (AVM-1)** was originally commissioned as a seaplane tender in 1945, serving in the Pacific theater during the final months of World War II. After the war, she was converted into a missile test ship, playing a critical role in the development and testing of naval missile systems, including the Terrier, Tartar, and Polaris programs. Throughout the Cold War, the Norton Sound was at the forefront of technological innovation, supporting research and evaluation of advanced weapons and radar systems. She was decommissioned in 1986 after more than four decades of distinguished service, leaving a lasting impact on naval aviation and missile development.