While most associate Pensacola with Naval Aviation, the city’s ties to the Navy predate the advent of the airplane. A total of four ships have been christened Pensacola,  the most famous being the heavy cruiser USS Pensacola (CA-24) commissioned 6 February 1930. She received 13 battle stars during World War II, including service at Midway, Guadalcanal and Leyte Gulf. The model on display was built by and donated by former crewman Lieutenant Commander William W. Davis. Construction of the model took place in off duty hours while Davis served on board the ship.