Congress Approved The Hale Plan, Also Known As The "Flying Midshipmen."  

AUGUST 13--The program was designed to provide the Navy with qualified pilots in the post-World War II period following the loss of a large segment of experienced naval aviators returning to civilian life. For those who joined the program, it offered to pay for two years of college and training as a naval aviator in exchange for a service obligation.

Personnel completing their flight training and designated a naval aviator were not automatically commissioned at the same time. They remained as aviation midshipman and were ordered to the fleet, serving a pilots but not as a commissioned officer. After a period of service in the fleet these "flying midshipmen" usually received their commission. The program was in effect between 1946 and 1950.