Carrier Air Wing 17 Playbook by USS Carl Vinson

CARRIER AIR WING SEVENTEEN

PLAYBOOK VOL 4 ISSUE 03

A SPECIAL EDITION OF THE VINSON “VOICE”

MAY 6, 2013

CVW-17 and USS Carl Vinson Underway by MCSN Hansel D. Pintos

or the first time in 11 months Carl Vinson welcomed aboard Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 to conduct flight operations. The two were underway together most recently during back-to-back Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments to the 7TH and 5th Fleet areas of operation (AOR), from November 2010 to June 2011 and November 2011 to May 2012. In February 2013, a portion of CVW-17 was aboard Carl Vinson to support the ship in earning its carrier air traffic control center’s (CATCC) certification. This time, the entire air wing returned to work alongside Carl Vinson to improve their operational readiness as a unit. “Although pilots may be proficient in aircraft operations and the carrier is proficient in a multitude of at-sea evolutions, working together as a team is the only way the carrier maximizes its capability,” said Cmdr. Brian Flick, Carl Vinson’s air operations officer. “The benefit is gaining and maintaining critical flight, flight deck handling, and positive air control skills necessary to conduct carrier flight operations.” The air wing will again be working closely with CATCC during carrier qualifications (CQ) to ensure pilots and aircrews are able to safely recover aircraft aboard the ship. During CQs, pilots must complete a pre-determined number of landings on the ship in order to update their currency. Currency is the set of actual qualifications that a pilot must maintain in order to operate on an aircraft carrier. Among these qualifications are carrier-landing requirements. Each pilot is responsible for a set number of landings during the day and during the night, explained Lt. Walter D. Timberlake, a tactical action officer (TAO), assigned to Carl Vinson’s operations department. Setting a new precedent aboard Carl Vinson, two different helicopter squadrons will operate together. Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 15 and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73 both had a small detachment of their squadrons onboard during the ship’s last underway, but during this underway they will integrate and work together with a full compliment of aircraft and aircrews. “It is new environment for HSM-73 to be onboard an aircraft carrier,” said Master Chief Avionics Technician (AW) Kevin Doby, HSM-73’s maintenance master chief. “We are looking forward to learning how to operate in a carrier environment and networking with HSC-15 and the rest of the air wing.” Helicopter squadrons are also scheduled to provide routine logistical and security support by conducting plane guard and anti-terrorism force protection

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(ATFP) flight operations. After completion of CQ, the air wing will conduct hawking and tanking evolutions for the certification of Blue Water Operations. Blue Water Operations occur when a divert field is not available – a safe, authorized shore facility where planes can recover and refuel. During hawking evolutions, Super Hornets loaded with extra gas tanks fly in a holding pattern overhead. When needed, a tanker follows or hawks the aircraft in need of fuel and sets up at the 2 o’clock position, where it can easily be seen. Once the setup is complete, fuel transfer begins. “The actual transfer of fuel in mid-air from the tanker into the aircraft is called ‘tanking’,” Air-Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW/SW) Alexander McCardleBlunk explained. Additionally, the air wing will work together with Carl Vinson’s combat direction center (CDC) to exercise strike air control’s capabilities, Flick explained. When an aircraft launches, the pilot checks in with CATCC and then strike control in CDC. Once the pilot checks in, strike control conducts a communications check to verify that there is clear contact with the pilot. “Strike control is responsible for flight safety and advisory,” said Operations Specialist 1st Class (AW/ SW) Aaron A. Paul, an air intercept controller (AIC) for CDC. “For example, they monitor the path of the aircraft so the pilot doesn’t fly into restricted air space or, in case of an emergency, CDC will inform them of their nearest divert field.” They also check for identification friend or foe (IFF), which consists of identifying an encrypted message emitted from the aircraft to CDC and read through a system named UPX-29. UPX-29 sets up an interrogation, verifying to make sure that the IFF signal matches up and is recognized by CDC. This identification is important, especially when an aircraft is requesting permission to land, because strike control must know if the aircraft approaching is an ally or hostile. “CATCC and CDC monitor the aircraft the entire time,” Paul said. “But once the aircraft travels 50 miles or beyond, strike control and CDC are ultimately responsible for it.” As the underway period unfolds, the air wing and ship’s crew aim to maintain a proactive approach toward training to exercise their capabilities cohesively. “It is important the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is capable of deploying with its full complement of personnel – which includes the air wing – in order to ensure that the team is ready to support national tasking when called upon,” Flick said.

pilots have been busy learning some of the more tactical information not learned at Fleet Replacement Squadrons. “We all learn how to do SAR and logistics [missions], but the more strategic things like CSAR and anti-surface missions we learn later on,” said Mooney. As HS-15, the squadron deployed to the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian and Arctic Oceans and served in operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Recently, while Carl Vinson was in its planned incremental availability (PIA), the Red Lions

Photo by MCSA Jacob G. Kaucher

Aviation Ordnanceman (AW/ NAC) James Thompson, HSC15’s maintenance master chief petty officer. “CSAR involves transporting special warfare personnel, specifically sea, air and land (SEAL) squads, in and out of a combat environment.” The current underway period allows the Red Lions to train newly-reported pilots on a moving platform, vice a flightline where they normally train. “For this underway period we’re going to focus most on safely operating in a carrier environment, for both maintenance personnel and the operations side of the house,” Thompson said. Lt. j.g. Richard Mooney, a pilot with the Red Lions, said the new

Red Roar by MCSN Scott Fenaroli

of their newly-acquired helicopters. “With any new aircraft there’s always going to be learning. Everyday we focus on proficiency, both on the basic and tactical side of work,” Thompson said. “The aircraft we are flying now is more technologically advanced – it’s very avionics intensive and there is a steep learning curve.” Similar to the success achieved during back-to-back Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments in 2011 and 2012, HSC-15 expects continued victory in the future missions. “Our success is based on the

Photo by MCSN Scott Fenaroli

transitioned from the SH-60F to the MH-60S Block 3B Sea Hawk helicopter. “The new aircraft tremendously increased our capabilities,” said Thompson. The equivalent would be like trading up from an old 1980s car to a brand new Ford Raptor with all the bells and whistles technology has to offer. The MH-60S is capable of carrying up to 12 special warfare personnel, delivering them to their target and picking them up after a mission. “The aircraft has a defensive weapons system and some of the newest offensive weapons in the rotary community,” he added. While on board Carl Vinson, the Red Lions also expect to learn more about the operations

HSC-15

part of the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Carl Vinson team since 2010, Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 15 is back with a new name - Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 15. Knows as the Red Lions, the squadron’s primary mission is search and rescue (SAR), combat search and rescue (CSAR), logistics and anti-surface warfare missions. “The Red Lions are proud to be with CVW-17 and Carl Vinson as the primary Search and Rescue and the only CSAR squadron aboard,” said Master Chief

success of the air wing and other squadrons,” Thompson said. “We are looking forward to integrating and working with the ship and showing what the Red Lions are typically known for, which is being the best at everything.”

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The World Famous BattleCats by MC3 Alex King

his is the first time the attaining qualifications for the squadron as a whole has various positions needed for an been embarked on Carl underway period on an aircraft Vinson or on a carrier in general,” said carrier. They qualified collateral Lt. j.g. Carolyn Keener, public affairs duty inspectors, plane captains, officer for Helicopter Maritime Strike helicopter aircraft commanders, and Squadron (HSM) 73, making it an helicopter 2nd pilots, for a variety of important event in both the history surface and anti-submarine warfare of USS Carl Vinson and HSM-73. missions. “We are really excited to be here,” Despite recently transitioning said Lt. Fernando Reyes, the quality from Helicopter Anti-Submarine assurance officer for HSM-73. “It Squadron Light (HSL) 43 to HSMdefinitely marks an important 73 in February 2012, the squadron’s chapter in our squadron’s history.” mission remains largely unchanged. Joining Carl Vinson and Carrier Air The most significant change Wing (CVW) 17 was a monumental brought about by the transition change for HSM-73, as they usually deploy as small detachments of one or two helicopters to various small ships around the world. Their arrival on Carl Vinson provides the ship with a primary helicopter squadron for anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare missions, explained Keener. Prior to coming aboard, Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Timothy Hazel the BattleCats of HSM-73 were hard at work preparing for the was the introduction of the MHupcoming mission. The squadron 60R Sea Hawk as the squadron’s completed helicopter flight training primary helicopter, replacing the and conducted maintenance SH-60B Sea Hawk, which meant on the helicopters to increased combat capabilities for the ensure that there BattleCats. were no The improved Sea Hawk features an advanced flight control computer, an integrated self-defense suite, upgraded electronic support measures, multi-mission radar C upgrade, torpedoes and hellfire “RAELL SIG PET N: E” missiles, as well as an airborne low frequency sonar and the ability to carry up to 25 sonobuoys. Along with its mission effectiveness, the MH-60R also has improved safety standards, such as energy absorbing landing setbacks gear, a safer fuel system, and load w h e n limiting crew seats – in short, “all they were the systems were upgraded to 21st “BATTLE CATS” underway. century specifications,” explained CDR PETER J. RIEBE They also Reyes. put extra “Our primary objective this emphasis on underway is to experience

HSM-73

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integrating with the ship and its Sailors and to build basic proficiency operating from the ship,” said Keener. One of the BattleCats’ primary missions is to provide an accurate surface picture for the Carrier Strike Group. “Surface picture missions allow the carrier to see beyond the limitations of its radar or of its own systems,” said Reyes. “With us in the air they can extend their radar up to about 100 miles.” By using HSM-73’s abilities, the ship is able to detect incoming threats faster and more effectively.

Photo by MCSN Scott Fenaroli

This collaboration makes the aircraft carrier safer for the crew and provides an advantage in a hostile situation. While HSM-73’s primary mission has always been anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, they also took part in Operation Tomodachi, the 2012 tsunami relief effort in Japan. Additional previous assignments

include s urveillance,

communication relay, naval surface fire support, logistics support, antidrug operations, search and rescue, and personnel transfer. From its origins as HSL-43 to its operations as HSM-73, the BattleCats have conducted numerous missions worldwide and proven to be a vital addition to each ship at sea. By depending on seasoned personnel and an upgraded aircraft, they look confidently toward a storied heritage.

Operation New Dawn. VAQ-139 accepted the first ICAP III Prowler in 2005, taking the lead on tactical development in the EA community and blazing the trail for the EA-18G Growler in the early stages of its development. In 2007, the Cougars were called to duty without warning for a WESTPAC surge deployment and once again made Prowler history as the first operational squadron to fly the EA-6B with a new digital flight control system. The Cougars are led by their commanding officer, Cmdr. Dwight “Woody” Clemons II, who took command in October 2012 as the ship completed its transition from CVW-14 to CVW-17. Serving under Clemons as the executive officer is Cmdr. William “Kid”

Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Timothy Hazel

Commander of Naval Operations (CNO) Safety “S”, first place in the 1986 Battle Readiness Competition, and the 19851986 Commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Battle Efficiency “E” Award. The Cougars’ steadfast prowess has earned them the CVW-14 Top Hook, Prowler Squadron of the Year for Tactical Excellence, Golden Wrench Award, and many others. While earning these accolades, VAQ139 served on six carriers, beginning with CV 64 in 1985 up to 2011 when they joined CVW-17 and Carl Vinson as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) One. Over their years of service, the Cougars have supported many operations, including Operation Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and

reported to USS Ingraham (FFG 61) as the command senior chief in November 2010 before being selected for master chief in May 2012. Cardon has been with the Cougars since Dec. 2012. “The support has been awesome from the Carl Vinson crew,” Cardon exclaimed. “Aviation intermediate maintenance department has been willing to do all they can to help us out; everyone is just really helpful.” While the move from CVW-14 to CVW-17 has been relatively recent for the Sailors from VAQ-139, the end result seems to leave most in high spirits. “The Reagan was a great ship; there is a lot of history with the Cougars on that ship with CVW-14,” Clemons said. “But I tell you what, I am so impressed with the Vinson. From the get go the crew has been nothing but professional. They have gone above and beyond, it seems, to welcome us aboard and take care of the issues and make sure that we we’re set. That is from our youngest Sailor all the way

Photo by MCSA Jacob G. Kaucher

Fraser, who has also been with the Cougars since 2012. The squadron was in the process of receiving its safe-forflight qualification when Fraser arrived. “Safe for flight is an ongoing process as the squadron learns more and more about the aircraft. Maintenance control starts tapping in and learning how to account for the maintenance and work the logs and records to then release the aircraft as an actual safe-for-flight aircraft.” Fraser explained. “All this is done so that we can get a blessing from Commander, Naval Air Forces saying ‘you can now operate as a squadron on your own.’” The Cougars’ command master chief CMDCM (AW/SW) Shane Cardon is a graduate of the Senior EnlistedAcademy Class 155/Gold, and Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat Class 81. He

through every Sailor. “The things that they have done for us to get us welcomed in to this ship is just awesome. I couldn’t be more pleased.” Clemons added. “Like the XO was saying, this by far is one of the cleanest ships that I have seen. It shows that this crew takes pride in who they are. Even just going down the passage ways people are smiling. People seem to enjoy being part of this crew.”

Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum (If you want peace, prepare for war) by MC3 Jacob G. Sisco

VA Q -139

he Cougars of the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 have been preparing for war since July 1, 1983, originally flying the Improved Capability (ICAP) EA-6B Prowler. While maintaining a home base at Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island that year, the Cougars participated in numerous maneuvers. It wasn’t until 1985 that they embarked on their maiden deployment to the Western Pacific (WESTPAC) and Indian Oceans, onboard USS Constellation (CV 64) as part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14. 1986 proved to be a successful year for the Cougars. They were granted a Navy Unit Commendation and won the “triple crown” of the Prowler community when they were also awarded the 1985

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VAW-116: The Eyes of CVW-17 and CVN 70 by MC2 (SW/AW) Nicolas C. Lopez

VAW-116

ommissioned April 20, 1967, the Sun Kings of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 116, stationed out of Naval Base Ventura County in Point Mugu, Calif., are a vital part of the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Carl Vinson team. The Sun Kings left CVW-2 to

Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Nicolas Lopez

become part of CVW-17 in October 2012. “We had a seamless transition,” said Lt. Jay Johnson, VAW-116’s assistant operations officer. “When the CVW-17 detachment went to

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Nev., for unit-level training, we got to work with the wing and built relationships with them. Everyone has been professional toward us.” Today the squadron flies the E-2C Hawkeye, an aircraft that uses computerized radars, identification friend or foe, and electronic surveillance sensors to

Naval A i r Station (NAS) Fallon,

CNS/ATM Upgrade. The newer generation of aircraft features a glass cockpit upgrade to satisfy Communication, Navigation and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management requirements. “This was a modern upgrade from steam gauges to a computer display,” Johnson said. “This is fantastic for our pilots and naval

Photo by MCSA Jacob G. Kaucher

provide early warning detection while on mission. The Hawkeye provides allweather airborne early warning, airborne battle management and command and control functions for the carrier strike group and joint force commander. “The Hawkeye sees more than other aircraft can, which keeps everyone else safe,” said Airman Kimberli Kameshiege from VAW-116. “Our squadron is the eyes of Carrier Air Wing 17 and the Carl Vinson.” Additional missions include surface surveillance coordination, air interdiction, offensive and defensive counter air control, close air support coordination, time critical strike coordination, search and rescue airborne coordination and communications relay. In May 2011, the Sun Kings were one of the first E2C Hawkeye 2000 squadrons to transition to and operate the E-2C HE2K

flight officers, especially with communications.” The last time the squadron was aboard Carl Vinson was in February of this year to conduct flight certifications. This underway will be second time they will launch and recover from the flight deck of Carl Vinson since joining CVW-17 seven months ago. In January 2012, while deployed to the 5th Fleet area of operations, the Sun Kings were recipients of CVW-2’s Maintenance Excellence “Golden Wrench” Award. The award is presented to squadrons for outstanding performance in aircraft maintenance. “We were all excited,” said Lt.j.g. Jayson Belmes, VAW-116’s maintenance material control officer. “This award showed the hard work and dedication that the Sun Kings crew performed during work-ups and while at Fallon. We have standards, and we set ours at a very high level.”

squadron’s Sailors, many of them on board an aircraft carrier for the first time. During launch and recovery exercises, the Redcocks’ focus is on proficiency and excellence in flight operations. “It is a lot different working on the flight line in Lemoore than it is working on the flight deck underway. We are here to get all of our Sailors used to operating at sea,” she said. “Our Sailors need the experience and integration for one team, one fight;

Photo by MCSN Iain L. Stratton

of cohesive excellence. In October 2001, Carl Vinson and VFA-22 were on station in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It was the genesis of the global war on terror, and the squadron flew more than 500 missions off Carl Vinson and dropped more than 300 tons of ordnance. They were also with Carl Vinson for back-to-back Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments in 2011 and 2012. Eager for more mutual success, VFA-22 returned with the same motto, and just as convinced as ever that ‘you can’t beat a Redcock’ (YCBAR), pronounced yick-bar. “I love being on the Carl Vinson,” said VFA-22’s Command Master Chief CMDCM (AW SW/EXW) Robyn Pierce, who has previously been aboard as an afloat training group inspector. She said the squadron aims to get much-needed experience for the

[ours] is one of the most dangerous jobs in the entire world.” VFA-22 also expects the underway to bring special challenges as they operate only six of their usual 12 jets. “It is going to be a different kind of operation,” said Pierce. “It will be a challenge to the maintainers to keep them going. When they don’t have the extra jets to choose from, the Sailors must work extremely hard.” The Redcocks are the air wing’s only “F-squadron” – “the only super hornets that fly with two crew members,” said Lt. Gavin Saito, public affairs officer (PAO) assigned to VFA-22. “That gives us a set of capabilities you don’t have in other single-seat aircraft, particularly when it comes to the forward aircontrol airborne mission. It also gives us a little bit more opportunity to catch mistakes and gives us backup.” The F/A-18F Super Hornet, flown

YCBAR, Get Some!

by VFA-22, shares endurance qualities with the similar F/A-18E Super Hornets flown by VFA81. Both aircraft are also known as ‘tankers’ and carry spare fuel, enabling them to take on longer range missions. They become team players in the sky, frequently transferring fuel to other agile aircraft with slimmer structures – a key role in mission success. “Every time we go airborne we have a set amount of gas an airplane can carry. The super hornets, as tankers, allow us to extend the flight for a particular aircraft by transferring fuel from one jet to another,” Saito explained. “It allows us to give fuel to other aircraft that do not have the same fuel capacity, which extends their mission.” The Sailors assigned to VFA22 are also ready to build upon their wealth of knowledge and qualifications while underway with Carl Vinson. “While I am here I want to finish getting my air warfare qualifications,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd class Nelson Rodriguez, ordnance crew member assigned to VFA-22. “I am also working on being qualified as a final checker and an apprentice, which requires a lot of on-the-job training. Being onboard gives me more of an opportunity to work toward these.” “This is what we are meant to do - fly from aboard the ship,” said Lt. j.g. Jonathan Lee. “It’s always exciting c o m i n g aboard.”

VFA-22

trike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, headquartered at Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore, Calif. and assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17, has been at the epicenter of naval aviation for more than five decades, frequently called upon to support and defend U.S. national policy. Known as the “Fighting Redcocks”, VFA-22 returned to San Diego April 30 to join Carl Vinson and continue a mutual proud history

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STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON 22 “FIGHTING REDCOCKS”

CDR RICHARD B. HILL

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VRC-30

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Along for the Ride C by MC3 (SW) George M. Bell

arl Vinson recently welcomed Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 aboard. While the air wing will join Carl Vinson next deployment, two squadrons not attached to the strike group, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25 and Fleet Logistic Support Squadron (VRC) 30 are also aboard for training. “This is the squadron’s first time conducting tactical operations in the carrier environment with the F/A18E aircraft since the return from our deployment with Carl Vinson in May,” said LT Mark Lovrencevic, VFA-25 public affairs officer. “Our mission this underway is to get our Sailors and pilots trained and qualified in the carrier environment.” VFA-25, nicknamed “Fist of the Fleet”, originally commissioned as Torpedo Squadron (VT) 17 on January 1, 1943 flying attack bombers. The squadron has contributed to numerous combat missions ranging from ground support for the invasion of Iwo Jima in 1945 to its most recent successful combat deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2012. In 1996, the squadron first embarked with Carl Vinson and operated extensively in the Persian Gulf, flying missions over Iraq in support of Operation Southern Watch, Operation Desert Strike, and Exercise Rugged Nautilus. On March 19, 2003, when VFA-25 began combat sorties in earnest and Operation Southern Watch abruptly turned into Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Fist of the Fleet led the way to Baghdad from the very beginning – including the daring first-night air strikes on the Iraqi capital in what is known as the “Shock and Awe” campaign. “I’ve only been assigned to the Fists for four months,” said Senior Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW/SW) Michael Armetta, who was ship’s company during Carl Vinson’s last two deployments prior to his transfer to VFA-25. “I am amazed by every piece of history I get to learn

about the squadron.” The Fists joined CVW-17 in 2010, again deploying with Carl Vinson during its Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment in 2011. During combat operations, the squadron maintained a 100-percent combat sortie completion rate, flying 1470 sorties and more than 3450 hours in some of the oldest F/A-18C Hornets in the fleet. Following their great performance, VFA-25 won the Top Hook trophy for all three line periods of WESTPAC 2011. Each line period consisted of approximately 30 arrested landings, or “traps”, on average, for each air wing pilot. During WESTPAC 2012 VFA25 had the opportunity to conduct flight operations in the North Arabian Sea off the coast of Iran and support coalition troops on the ground during combat operations in Afghanistan. They were awarded the Lt. j.g. Bruce Carrier Award for excellence in aviation maintenance. Fist maintenance also received the CVW-17 Golden Wrench award, as well as the Top Hook Award for two line periods. “Even though we are transitioning to CVW-9, it is a great opportunity to be able to train aboard Carl Vinson and the FIST’s are happy to be here,” said Lovrencevic. Providing an entirely different but equally important mission, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30, also known as the “Providers”, traces its ancestry to Air Transport Squadron (VR) 5, commissioned June 24, 1943. VR-5 was placed under the command of Fleet Logistics Support Wing U.S. Pacific Fleet in 1948 after the Naval Air Transportation Service and Air Transport Command merged and became the Military Air Transport Service. After its decommissioning in 1957, VR-5 became VR-21, with detachments at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, Japan and Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI). VR-21 was the first squadron to

fly dedicated Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) aircraft with the NASNI detachment, making the first delivery with the Grumman C-1A Trader aircraft to the USS Yorktown (CV 10). The NASNI detachment relocated to NAS Alameda, Calif., where VR21 was decommissioned October 1, 1966. The Atsugi detachment became VRC 50, and the Alameda detachment was commissioned as Fleet Tactical Support Squadron (VR) 30. VR-30 made their first COD arrested landing in a C-1A on the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA 31) November 9, 1966. The Navy’s first female aviator, Lt. j.g. Barbara A. Allen, reported to the squadron for duty March 12, 1974, further cementing VR-30’s place in naval history. After relocating back to NASNI, VR-30 was decommissioned in October 1978 and was concurrently commissioned as VRC-30, generating the birth of the “Providers”. VRC 30 transitioned to the C2-A in late 1981 by accepting deliveries of the first “Greyhounds”. The squadron continues to operate C2-As today. In 1999, the Providers achieved 24 years and more than 149,600 hours of accident-free flying. The squadron was awarded the Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award six times between 1979 and 1992 and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for exemplary service from October 1993 to September 1994. Most recently, in 2011 the Provider squadron was awarded the Commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet Battle Efficiency Award and the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Retention Excellence Award for fiscal year 2011. In all, the Providers of VRC-30 flew over 4,800 flight hours, safely transporting 15,244 passengers, 4,277 distinguished visitors and 2,254,471 lbs of high priority cargo and mail to five carriers at sea in 2011.

jets since their introduction into service in 2010. The squadron is also proud to be one of the few squadrons stationed on the East Coast assigned to a West Coast air wing. “Every time we come out here, we have to take all of our people and all of our jets and bring them across country,” said Lt. Donald J. Thompson, a pilot assigned to VFA-81. “It presents some unique challenges for us and it’s kind of cool.” When moving from their homeport in Virginia Beach, Va., to join Carl Vinson on the West Coast,

Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) Timothy Hazel

a break for the first two or three months after you go on a cruise, but they haven’t gotten a break yet. It’s been nonstop. It’s good because we’ve stayed busy and it gives you a sense of accomplishment seeing the work these guys have been doing.” VFA-81 personnel take pride in the squadron’s history, as well. It was commissioned July 1, 1955, originally as the “Crusaders”, and was renamed the “Sunliners” in 1963. In its more than 50year existence, VFA-81 has been deployed all around the world in support of numerous notable operations, from the Suez Crisis in 1956, to the most recent Operation Enduring Freedom. It is perhaps best known for claiming the Navy’s only two aerial victories during the Persian Gulf War. The squadron has been conducting operations using F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter

VFA-81

ne year after completing a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific (WESTPAC) region, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, also known as the “Sunliners”, joined Carl Vinson to perform flight operations and conduct training during an underway period. “They’ve been working hard, I can tell you that,” said Chief Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AW/ SW) Lexington Bautista, VFA-81’s aircraft division chief. “These guys haven’t stopped since they got off the last cruise. Usually you get

Bautista stressed the importance of VFA-81’s personnel taking time during the underway to familiarize themselves with the ship and get to know the ship’s crew so that all hands can work together to become the strongest team possible. “It’s essential to know the crew on the ship,” Bautista said, “especially since we’re going be here for the next cruise as part of the air wing. This is going be that time to get to know one another.” For new challenges that might arise during the underway, however large or small, Bautista is

Photo by MC3 (SW/AW) Cyd M. Vargas

squadron pilots fly their aircraft across country while the Navy flies the squadron’s support personnel in larger passenger aircraft, and then ships other necessary equipment by truck. The squadron’s three-part mission during the current underway includes flight deck operations training for all its personnel, refresher training on launch and recovery operations for pilots, and earning aircraft carrier qualifications. “It’s a good thing for us because our pilots haven’t flown around a [ship] for about a year, since the last underway,” Thompson said. “It’s a great opportunity for us to again experience flying around a [ship] and get proficient at landing on it since it’s been so long. That’s what we’re looking forward to the most. “

confident the squadron is prepared. “Just like our slogan says, ‘anytime, anyplace,’ we get it done,” Bautista said. “We perform at top level all the time. T h e squadron is always ready.” VFA-81 is led by its commanding officer, Cmdr. Frank Rhodes, its executive officer, Cmdr. Brett Dresden, and its Command Master Chief C M D C M ( AW / S S / SW) Mike Apperson.

“Who Said Sunliners?”

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The Mighty Shrikes: Back to Sea by MC3 Dean M. Cates

VFA-94

hile many familiar VFA-94’s operations officer. Twenty deployments, four faces got underway “Previously we were part of carriers and five operations with Carl Vinson the Unit Deployment Program later, VFA-94 received their May 2, one squadron – bearing (UDP); we did deployments to first F/A-18C Hornets and the aerodynamic markings Japan for six months at a time were re-designated as a Strike of Strike Fighter Squadron and enjoyed some of the things Fighter Squadron in 1990. (VFA) 94, the Mighty Shrikes we now take for granted, like The squadron hopes – returned to the ship after a Internet and being able to go to maximize its training 12-year hiatus. out for dinner.” opportunities in the present. Named after the loggerhead He said the Shrikes’ main goal “Aircraft readiness is a big shrike, a bird of prey known now is to integrate into the air part of what we do,” said VFAfor impaling its prey on thorns, wing and get the squadron up to 94 Command Master Chief VFA-94 was commissioned in speed on carrier certifications. CMDCM (AW/SW) Donald 1952 as Fighter Squadron (VA) “We’re a little bit behind in Henderson. “We have set some 94 and flew the F4U Corsair. In May of 1997, under the direction of Commander, C a r r i e r Strike Group (CSG) Three, the Shrikes d e p l o y e d aboard Carl Vinson to the Arabian Gulf Photo by MCSN Scott Fenaroli Photo by MC3 (SW/AW) Cyd M. Vargas for the first time. The second time the regards to corporate knowledge goals and anticipate meeting all Mighty Shrikes teamed up with that other squadrons have,” our sorties – that way the pilots Carl Vinson was for the first Lauber said. “Overall, our can accomplish what they need missions of Operation Enduring mindset is crawl, walk and run to accomplish while out here. Freedom in 2001. Now, in 2013, – we’re going to be right there We are eager about being a part the Mighty Shrikes are here with everyone else. “ of the air wing’s integration and as part of CVW-17. It’s the The Mighty Shrikes boast an learning how to do the business beginning of a longer illustrious history. In 1964, they we are accustomed to as a unit partnership. completed seven consecutive deployment program squadron, deployments during the out to sea.” Vietnam War to Southeast Asia Henderson said about 80 in support of Operations Yankee percent of the enlisted squadron Team and Flaming Dart I and have never been on a ship. With II aboard USS Ranger (CV 61). this time out to sea, he expects In 1965 the squadron joined them to maintain a high level USS Enterprise (CVN 65) on of readiness and proficiency. her first combat cruise as part “We spent the last year of CVW-9. As part of CVW-5, getting ourselves back to CAL L “DL SIGN: DS” in 1966, the Shrikes completed being a ship squadron,” said FLIG “2005 four combat deployments Lauber. “We did four carrier HO HT 2,8U0RS: w a s aboard USS Hancock (CV 19) qualification detachments and 5 the last and USS Bon Homme Richard over 100 maintainer flight deck time we (CV 31). and embarked qualifications as were on After transitioning to the A-7E a part of getting reassigned to STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON 94 a carrier,” Corsair, VA-94 joined CVW-15 CVW-17. All the personnel are “THE MIGHTY SHRIKES” said Lt. and USS Coral Sea (CV 43) for excited to be here. This is what CDR NICK MUNGAS Cmdr. Brian the squadron’s final Southeast we signed up to do: land and fly L a u b e r , Asia combat deployment. off a ship.”

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Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore, Calif., attached to CVW-17, and maintains a continued enthusiasm to serve wherever they are called upon. They are particularly excited to have the opportunity to be back aboard Carl Vinson. “Having this time available to us to fly around the ship and work with the air wing team is fantastic,” said Cmdr. Brian Schrum, VFA-113’s executive officer. “It has been almost a year since some of the guys have flown onto the ship. It is nice to get back into that environment again and experience being on the ship.” All things considered, safety is a

Photo by MC3 (SW) George M. Bell

huge focus for VFA-113 Sailors as they reacquaint themselves to the ship. “It is our primary objective – making sure everyone is safe on the flight deck,” Schrum said. “That includes everyone from the pilots to the maintainers watching out for one another, as well as the air wing brethren. For the pilots, we will work on the basics.” For newer Stinger pilots, including Napoli, who has been with the Stingers for almost a year, working on the basics will serve to build their foundation as they transition from simply landing and recovering to departing on assigned missions. “There is definitely a different mindset,” Napoli said. “Things like landing on the ship are now considered standard. This is what we call admin – this is expected. Now we have to take off, do [our] mission, whether that is an air-to-air or an air-to-surface [mission],

VFA-113

o fulfill the Navy’s strategy of projecting power, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier’s primary purpose is getting fighter jets airborne. And for almost three decades, the iconic F-18 Hornet has served as the long reaching arm of the carrier. Its versatility and ability to conduct a wide range of missions is why it composes the largest part of a carrier air wing. On May 2, 2013, Carl Vinson got underway with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 to conduct air operations, welcoming aboard five F-18 squadrons. More than one is a familiar sight, having completed two back-to-back Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments with Carl Vinson in the past two years. Recognized by its blue camouflage show-jet, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 returned to conduct the business of carrier air operations. Commissioned on July 15, 1948, as Fighter Squadron (VF) 113, the nicknamed “Stingers” flew missions over Korea in F4U Corsair from both USS Philippine Sea (CVA 47) and the USS Valley Forge (CVA 45). Throughout the 1960s the Stingers returned to Southeast Asia on USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) and flew numerous missions into North Vietnam against enemy lines. The Stingers continued to support the Navy’s maritime strategy, flying missions in both war and peacetime in a variety of aircraft. On March 25, 1983 the squadron was re-designated as Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 and completed a transition to the brand-new F/A-18 Hornet. “VFA-113 has the motto ‘the first and the finest’ and it was the first squadron to fly the F/A-18 Hornet,” said Lt. Christopher Napoli, a squadron pilot. “This year we are celebrating 30 years of flying the Hornet.” The Stingers flew their F/A-18 in the 1990s supporting operations Desert Shield and Desert Strike. They flew in the 2000s with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 in support of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Currently, VFA-113 is based in

and come back and land.” As the operational intensity increases, Napoli said he finds himself with mixed emotions. “It is interesting,” Napoli said. “With any new guy, you’ll hear the stories of things other guys have done and how an air wing operates. Hearing things like ‘breaking the deck’ and all these terms that we’re not really familiar with. I’m both nervous and excited at the same time.” The excitement is felt across the Stinger squadron as both the new and seasoned get to experience what it means to be out to sea on an aircraft carrier with an embarked air wing. “Coming to the ship, you have to get into the mentality of being able to stack things up and put things away so you can maximize space,” said Schrum. “But it is what we do. We are in the Navy, we deploy; as so, we need to continue to practice.” With an uncertain future due to current budgetary constraints, Schrum emphasized the need to take full advantage of each and every day the squadron has aboard Carl Vinson. “We feel very fortunate to have this opportunity,” Schrum said. “We are going to do everything to the best of our ability, whatever the outcome of the budget and sequestration. Even if this time isn’t necessarily part of our work-up schedule, it is good to get back into the mentality of going back out to sea, and getting ready to fly and fight wherever we are called.”

The First and the Finest

“CHALL SIG UBB N: ER”

FL HO IGHT

3,0U0RS: 0

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BE INGE 113 R RS”

by MC2 (SW/AW) Timothy Hazel

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EXECUTIVE EDITORS

LCDR KYLE RAINES Public Affairs Officer

EA-18G

LTJG TREVOR DAVIDS Assistant Public Affairs Officer

Growler

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MCC (AW/SW) MONICA NELSON Media Leading Chief Petty Officer

MEDIA DEPARTMENT

s or ail

CAPT. KENT WHALEN Commanding Officer

VAW-116

PUBLISHER

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Hawkeye

gf itin

E-2C

F TA

VFA-22 VFA-25 VFA-81 VFA-94 VFA-113

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Hornets & Super Hornets

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m ea at

F/A-18C/E/F

GRAPHICS/LAYOUT

MC2 (SW) MEGAN L. CATELLIER MC3 MICHAEL H. LEE

C-2A

Greyhound VRC-30

MH-60S/R

HSC-15 HSM-73 PG 12

Seahawks

VAQ-139

STAFF WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

MC2(SW/AW) TIMOTHY HAZEL MC2(SW/AW) NICOLAS C. LOPEZ MC3(SW/AW) CYD M. VARGAS MC3(SW) GEORGE M. BELL MC3 GIOVANNI SQUADRITO MC3 DEAN M. CATES MC3 ALEX KING MC3 JACOB G. SISCO MCSN HANSEL D. PINTOS MCSN CURTIS D. SPENCER MCSN SCOTT FENAROLI MCSA JACOB G. KAUCHER MCSA MATTHEW A. CARLYLE

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