National President's Message

Symposium 2022: The Human Advantage

By CDR Emily “ABE” Stellpflug, USN

Whether it’s on the flight deck of the USS Midway, pool side at the Viejas Casino, or at a local brewery in Norfolk, the NHA Members Reunion never disappoints. The Reunion and Symposium are a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with friends and colleagues from years past and enjoy the irreplaceable bonds that have formed with lifelong friends. As I reflect on NHA Symposiums that I’ve attended throughout the years, the connection and camaraderie is what keeps me coming back! It is part of what makes Naval Aviation so unique and exceptional.

In addition to the opportunity to reunite and network, this year’s Symposium boasts a unique theme, “The Human Advantage." Today’s Navy recognizes that our people are the true competitive advantage in the high-end fight. I still think back to day one at USNA (merely a few years ago) memorizing the mission, “To develop midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically…” and consider the importance of preparing ourselves each day for what lies ahead. And not just ourselves as individuals, but the Sailors who we lead and our loved ones who support us. I once had a flight instructor who bragged that they could teach anyone to fly, but said the difficulty was teaching decision-making and leadership within the cockpit. This theme, aptly described by RADM “Dano” Fillion as “Weapons System with a Heart," isn’t just about flying and executing TTPs. The theme targets individual readiness, including training, innovation, leadership, work-life-balance, resilience, and supporting our military families.

The NHA Planning Team dug into the schedule of events and strives to deliver meaningful discussions and panels aimed at enhancing our personal effectiveness within rotary winged aviation. We kick off the week’s activities with the Aircrew Challenge out at the Ocean View Fishing Pier as a way to demonstrate our teamwork and grit. The following are some panel highlights:

• Keynote Speaker - Jamie Cochran from Echelon Front • Major Commander’s Panel • PERS-43 Briefs • Second Sea Tour Panel • Retention Panel • OCONUS Experience Panel • Post Military / Entrepreneurial Lunch • Women Aviator Mentorship Breakfast • JO & DH calls (with VCNO) • Captains of Industry Panel • Flag Panel

Each evening includes a social event: Members Reunion at O’Connor’s Brewery, Flight Suit / Industry Social at the Marriott Waterside Hotel, and the capstone Top Golf Tournament to raise money for the NHA Scholarship Fund and NHA Historical Society at Top Golf, Virginia Beach.

Please register at: https://www.navalhelicopterassn.org

Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of this phenomenal event. I look forward to seeing you all there!

Fly Safe! V/R ABE, NHA Lifetime Member #481