Navy Times: A History of Military Journalism
For decades, Navy Times has served as a vital source of information for naval personnel and their families. The publication's roots are deeply embedded in the tradition of military reporting, beginning with a founder who understood the unique needs of service members on the front lines.
The Vision of Mel Ryder
Navy Times was founded in 1951 by Mel Ryder, the owner of the Army Times Publishing Company. Ryder's journey into journalism began during World War I, where he worked for Stars and Stripes, selling and delivering newspapers to troops in active combat zones.
Following his early experience, Ryder expanded his professional reach in 1921 by partnering with Willard Kiplinger to establish the Kiplinger Agency, a specialized newsletter service. After selling his interest in the agency in 1933, Ryder shifted his focus to the Civilian Conservation Corps, publishing a paper titled Happy Days. This venture saw an initial order of 400 copies and secured GEICO as its first advertiser.
By 1940, Ryder's commitment to military news culminated in the start and incorporation of the Army Times newspaper, laying the groundwork for the eventual launch of Navy Times.
Corporate Evolution and Digital Transition
As the media landscape shifted, the ownership of these military publications underwent several significant changes. In 1997, the Army Times Publishing Company was acquired by Gannett, a major media conglomerate, and was subsequently renamed Gannett Government Media (GGM).
The digital era brought new ways to engage with readers. In June 2009, Navy Times expanded its reach by launching the "Scoop Deck" blog, providing a more immediate platform for news and updates.
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In 2015, GGM was spun off as part of TEGNA, which served as Gannett's broadcast and digital-only business group. During this period, GGM was rebranded as Sightline Media Group. The ownership structure changed once more in 2016 when TEGNA sold Sightline to Regent, a private equity firm based in Los Angeles.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1951 by Mel Ryder.
- Founder's Background: Started at Stars and Stripes during World War I.
- First Advertiser: GEICO (for the publication Happy Days).
- Digital Milestone: Launched the "Scoop Deck" blog in June 2009.
- Current Ownership Path: Transitioned from Gannett to TEGNA (as Sightline Media Group) and finally to Regent.
Ownership Timeline Summary
| Year/Period | Owner/Entity | Key Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1951 | Mel Ryder | Founded Navy Times |
| 1997 | Gannett | Acquired Army Times Publishing Company; renamed Gannett Government Media |
| 2015 | TEGNA | Spun off from Gannett; renamed Sightline Media Group |
| 2016 | Regent | Acquired Sightline Media Group from TEGNA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Navy Times?
Navy Times was founded in 1951 by Mel Ryder, who also owned the Army Times Publishing Company.
What was Mel Ryder's first experience in military journalism?
Ryder began his career with Stars and Stripes during World War I, where he was responsible for selling and delivering papers to troops on the front lines.
When did Navy Times enter the blogging space?
Navy Times launched its "Scoop Deck" blog in June 2009.
What is the relationship between Gannett and Sightline Media Group?
Gannett Government Media (GGM) was part of Gannett until 2015, when it was spun off into TEGNA and renamed Sightline Media Group.
Who currently owns the publication following the 2016 sale?
In 2016, Sightline Media Group was sold to Regent, a private equity firm based in Los Angeles.