"vincent p. norris" wrote in message
...

My grandfather, Naval Aviator #711, told me about standing up in the
cockpit
and peeing over the side of his plane.

That would also indicate he was designated between 1911 and 1919.
During those years 2834 Naval Aviators were designated.

I got my wings in February, 1951, and my number is V-1493.

Anyone know how they got from 2834 in 1919 and V-1493 in 1951?

vince norris

The numbering system has had changes. See http://www.history.navy.mil/ ,
click on Naval Aviation History and click on

The History of Naval Aviator and Naval Aviation Pilot Designations and
Numbers, The Training of Naval Aviators and the Number Trained (Designated)

Tex Houston