Numbering at each location started at 1. Aviators were designated
under this scheme until March 29, 1949 when the system changed again
as follows:.......
Chief of Naval Air Advanced Training designated sequentially beginning
with 1 with the prefix "V"

Rich

Thanks for the explanation, Rich. Now I know why my number begins
with a V. I was designated at the conclusion of my Advanced Training,
at Corpus Christi.

I thought it meant "heavier than air," as in squadron designations.
(There were still lighter-than-air pilots around when I got my wings.
I assumed their numbers started with Z.)

vince norris