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HistoryVP-30 HistoryHistory

Circa 2009

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Young Officers Earn NFO Wings at VP-30 - Page 3 - Thursday, November 26, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNewshttp://www.jaxairnews.com/ [27NOV2009]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...'Pro's Nest' Sailors Bring Sweets To Community by VP-30 Public Affairs Officer - Thursday October 12, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [13NOV2009]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Aircraft Emergency Landing Exercise By Clark Pierce, Editor - Last modified Thu., November 05, 2009 - 04:26 PM..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [07NOV2009]

It's an emergency situation that every airport must be prepared for - a plane approaches for landing with malfunctioning landing gear. Hundreds of military and civilian personnel participated in the Oct. 29 emergency scenario at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, when a four-engine P-3C Orion aircraft assigned to VP-30 is forced to land with a collapsed nose gear.

NAS Jax Emergency Management Officer Ray Edmond said, "It appears that command and control communications at the station's emergency operations center (EOC) performed as expected. Our ELMR (enterprise land mobile radio) network also worked well, enabling different commands to monitor and communicate with each other through a single system of hand-held radios."

At the EOC, Edmond worked with NAS Jax Executive Officer Capt. Jeffrey Maclay, as well as incident commanders from air operations, crash crew, fire and rescue, Naval Hospital NAS Jacksonville, Florida, public works, Fleet and Family Support Center, environmental department, safety and public affairs/media information.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce Boats manned by "boom wranglers" maneuver orange oil containment booms so the spilled hydraulic fluid can be suctioned up by the vacuum truck.

Bob Irwin, deputy emergency manager at Commander Navy Region Southeast, was an observer at the EOC. "I liked the teamwork that was exhibited during this exercise. First responders worked well with corpsmen to triage and transport victims for hospital care. The integration of the response effort was noteworthy," said Irwin. "In addition to a hard landing that resulted in various injuries to the P-3C operators, the scenario included an environmental issue where leaking hydraulic fluid flows into a storm drain that empties into the St. Johns River," said Jim Butters, NAS Jax installation training officer.

"So, in addition to our crash crew, fire/rescue and medical personnel responding to the aircraft -our NAS Jax Environmental Department Hazmat Spill Response Team simultaneously worked to remediate the environmental issue," said Butters.

Air Operations Boathouse personnel worked with environmental staff to deploy a network of booms in the St. Johns River to contain the simulated hydraulic fluid flowing from the storm drain. The exercise also included simulated calls to local and state regulatory agencies.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce LS2 Nitishia Gaines of Naval Hospital Jax applies disaster makeup to the face of VP-30 aircrewman AWV2 Robert Burke prior to the Oct. 29 disaster drill at NAS Jacksonville, Florida.

NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. said that the exercise tested the station's readiness - and its ability to respond promptly and properly through an integrated, team approach.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce The Hazmat Spill Response Team composed of IAP Hill contract personnel and NAS Jax Environmental Department staff deploy a vacuum vehicle near a storm drain outflow to remove simulated hydraulic fluid from the water's surface.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce HM1 Edwin Albino (right) and HM Mariano Indalecio tend to AT3(AW) William Boyer, one of the injured air crewmen of the P-3C Orion that had a emergency landing during the disaster drill.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce LCDR Steve Maier of VP-30 carefully goes over the information tag of wounded Sailor AM3 Brian VanBelkum, to make sure he gets the correct treatment during a disaster drill that included a P3C Orion making a simulated emergency landing.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Kaylee LaRocque NAS Jax Executive Officer Capt. Jeffrey Maclay discusses the events of the disaster drill during a simulated press conference after the event. Standing by to assist with questions were NAS Jax Environmental Officer Kevin Gartland, left, and NAS Jax Fire Chief Don Martin.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Yaw takes helm at VP-30 By Lt. j.g. Glenn Greenleaf VP-30 Public Affairs - Thursday, August 6, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [08AUG2009]

Officer Capt. Perry Yaw assumed command of VP-30 "Pro's Nest" from Capt. Rich Fite in a July 17 ceremony at the squadron's hangar on board NAS Jacksonville, Florida. "Today I pass the controls to Capt. Yaw," said Fite. "It is my honor to be relieved by an officer of such high caliber."

Yaw told the audience, "I am honored and profoundly humbled to have the privilege of working with and for all of you. VP-30 is the best squadron in naval aviation. The Pro's Nest – our name says it all – will continue to build on the solid foundation set by Capt. Fite to operate a safe and highly capable squadron, ready to support warfighters."

Fite spoke of how grateful he was to lead some of the great defenders of our nation. "The Pro's Nest showed unmatched dedication to teaching thousands of naval aviation warriors who are now forward deployed around the globe." Speaking directly to the squadron's chief petty officers, Fite said, "The Chiefs' Mess is the backbone of the Pro's Nest – engaged, concerned and displaying fierce leadership." He also thanked the spouses and squadron individual augmentees, saying, "They deserve our respect, admiration and applause."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Fite turns over 'Pro's Nest' to Yaw - From VP-30 Public Affairs - Thursday, July 16, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [29MAY2009]

Capt. Perry Yaw will assume command of VP-30 at a ceremony to be held in the squadron's hangar tomorrow. Yaw relieves Capt. Richard Fite, who has led the squadron since August 2007. Retired Rear Adm. Richard Brooks will be the guest speaker.

Born in Binghampton, N.Y. and raised in Long Beach, N.Y., Yaw joined the ROTC program at Auburn University where he graduated with honors in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science in aviation management. In 1989, he received his "Wings of Gold" after completing training at NAS Meridian, Miss.

Yaw reported to the West Coast Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), VP-31 for initial training in the P-3C Orion aircraft. Upon completion of training in 1991, he reported to the "Blue Sharks" of VP-6 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. During his tour, he qualified as patrol plane commander and deployed to Misawa, Japan. Following the disestablishment of the VP-6 in 1993, Yaw was assigned to the "Golden Eagles" of VP-9, where he qualified as patrol plane mission commander and instructor pilot. During his first tour with the Golden Eagles, he deployed to Diego Garcia and Masirah, Oman, flying missions in the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch.

In 1994, Yaw reported for FRS instructor training at VP-30 while en route to duty on the West Coast NATOPS evaluation team for Commander, Patrol Wings, U.S. Pacific Fleet (CPWP), at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. He served as a CPWP NATOPS evaluation team member, patrol plane instructor and Maverick missile system introduction team lead pilot.

In 1996, Yaw reported to on board USS Enterprise (CVN 65), in Norfolk, Va., as the operations administration officer. While on board the carrier, he qualified as officer of the deck underway and deployed to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf.

Yaw returned to NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii in 1998 and reported once again to the Golden Eagles of VP-9 where he served as training officer, assistant maintenance officer and maintenance officer. During this tour with VP-9, Yaw completed a tri-site deployment to Diego Garcia, Masirah, Oman and Bahrain and a dual-site deployment to Misawa and Kadena, Japan. The 1998 tri-site deployment was the first ever deployment with the new Aircraft Improvement Program variant of the P-3C aircraft. It was also during this tour that VP-9 completed its homeport change from NAS Barbers Point to Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.

In 2000, Yaw reported to Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, homeported at MCBH, where he served as the force training officer and assistant chief of staff for training.

In 2004, he reported for the third time to VP-9 as the executive officer and assumed command in May 2005. During this tour he completed a multi-site deployment to Diego Garcia, Bahrain, Kandahar, Afghanistan and Djibouti deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

In June 2006, Yaw reported to the Naval War College in Newport, R.I. as the U.S. Navy's representative to the international program in the Naval Command College. In July 2007, Yaw reported to the Naval Personnel Command where he served as the assistant aviation captain detailer.

Yaw assumes command of a squadron that has been marked by profound achievements during Fite's tenure from August 2007 to July 2009. During this period, the squadron earned the Cmdr. T.G. Ellyson Award for aviator production excellence presented to the Navy's most effective fleet replacement squadron; Golden Anchor Retention Excellence award; back-to-back CNO Safety "S" awards; and the Golden Wrench award for outstanding maintenance - a first for VP-30.

Additionally, the "Pro's Nest" FRS was awarded the Blue "M" and Blue "H" for medical and wellness excellence. Moreover, under Fite's leadership, he shepherded and championed the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance (MPR) community's comprehensive transformation plan that will ensure the efficient and effective fleet integration of the Navy's newest combat aircraft - the P-8A Poseidon and introduction of the BAMS unmanned aerial system.

By establishing the MPR Weapons School, Fite revolutionized the post-FRS training continuum, which provides highly trained warriors to the fleet. Of perhaps the greatest significance, VP-30 continued its record of safe flying operations under a high-tempo training environment. The squadron recently achieved 45 years of mishap-free flying totaling more than 435,000 flight hours.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 earns CNO Safety "S" and Golden Wrench Award By LT(jg) Glenn Greenleaf, VP-30 Public Affairs Officer - Thursday, May 28, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [29MAY2009]

Officers, chiefs, petty officers and airmen stood proudly in the VP-30 auditorium May 8 as Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group, Rear Adm. Bill Moran presented AD2 Melvin Redding with the squadron's second consecutive CNO Aviation Safety "S" award.

History ThumbnailCamera New Naval Flight Officers celebrate their "wings of gold" pinning ceremony at VP-30. (From left) Ensigns Mathew Curtis and James Rowe, Capt. Rich Fite, Ensigns Alexander Lietzan, Alan Tucker, Caroline Darney, Michael Hofheins, Evita Salles, Jamie Bardee, Lisa Lowery, Joshua Hill, Stephen Demoulin and Cmdr. Pat McCormick. Photo courtesy of VP-30.

VP-30 safely surpassed 6,723 flight hours and 19,251 landings for 2008. This brings the squadron total to 433,000 mishap-free flight hours over the past 45 years.

Redding, who works in the squadron's power plants division, was called forward to receive the monthly VP-30 Safety Pro award from Moran and VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Rich Fite.

History ThumbnailCamera (From left) VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Rich Fite, Lockheed Martin Representative Charles Powell, AD1 Eric Taylor (Quality Assurance Shop), AE2 Michael Casa (Electricians Shop) and AM2 Jared White ("Shooters" Shop) celebrate winning the Golden Wrench Award May 22 in the VP-30 auditorium. Photo courtesy of VP-30 Public Affairs.

"Then they surprised me by asking me to accept the CNO Safety 'S' award on behalf of our squadron. It was a real honor," said Redding. In his remarks to the "Pro's Nest" Moran stated, "The Safety 'S' is emblematic of VP-30's enduring commitment to operational excellence and readiness through safety. Whenever I visit this squadron, it's easy to see that safety is big part of your culture. It can never be something you strive for just to win an award. As a former safety officer and assistant maintenance officer for CPRW-11, nobody appreciates your accomplishment more than I do. I challenge you to maintain your outstanding safety record for another 45 years."

Fite said, "Our impressive safety record of back-to back CNO Aviation Safety 'S' awards is a byproduct of the excellence within our squadron. Safety and excellence are interwoven, so it's no surprise that a squadron that is highly successful in its mission also has a phenomenal safety record. We have extraordinary deckplate leadership and our team is focused on by-the-book maintenance."

Fite continued, "I attribute the success of the Pro's Nest to teamwork. The reason that VP-30 is unique comes from working together as a team. One team, one fight. No one thinks that their job is more important than anybody else's job. Each person brings their 'A' game to work every day. No one has to tell us we have to work late if something isn't done correctly or safely. Everyone knows their job and the safety procedures that go along with their job. That is why I'm not surprised that we have won the award two times in a row."

Pro's Nest adds Golden Wrench Award to trophy case.

Signifying a "first" for a fleet replacement squadron, Lockheed Martin Representative Charles Powell presented the 2008 Golden Wrench Award May 22 to VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Rich Fite and three of "Pro's Nest" maintainers.

The Golden Wrench Award is presented annually to a patrol squadron in the Atlantic, Pacific and reserve force that demonstrates the greatest excellence in aircraft maintenance.

Officially known as the AVCM Donald M. Neal Aircraft Maintenance Award, the Golden Wrench Award was initiated in 1965 by the Chief of Naval Operations and sponsored by Lockheed Martin.

VP-30 Maintenance Officer Lt. Cmdr. Daryl Pierce, credited the men and women of the maintenance department. "This achievement is a clear testament of the professionalism, dedication to quality maintenance, and the 'can-do' spirit that is prevalent among our Pro's Nest maintainers," said Pierce.

Fite agreed, "Being awarded the Golden Wrench Award - a first ever for a fleet replacement squadron - is extremely rewarding. When I assumed command, the squadron had failed the previous two maintenance inspections and the potential for shutting down squadron operations was pending.

"Our entire command pulled together, working long hours and weekends. We got the squadron back in step, to operate safely and perform maintenance by the book. Our entire maintenance culture changed and we rededicated ourselves to focus on the details," said Fite.

The skipper concluded, "Not only did VP-30 have 41 of 41 programs on track with 'zero discrepancies' on its most recent Commander Naval Air Forces Aviation Maintenance Inspection - but the Pro's Nest finished it off by winning the Golden Wrench Award. I'm extremely proud of our maintainers - they are, indeed, true professionals and most deserving of our nickname, the Pro's Nest."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...First Quarter 2009 - Thursday, February 23rd, 2009 (Squadrons Mentioned: VP-30, VP-45 and VP-62)..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [24APR2009]

VP-45 Blue Jacket of the Quarter AZAN Jonathan Kilgore Junior Sailor of the Quarter AD2 (AW) Thomas Bacon Sailor of the Quarter AM1 (AW) James Agner

VP-30 Blue Jacket of the Quarter ATAN Blake Gerlikowski Junior Sailor of the Quarter YN3 Joann Gonzalez Sailor of the Quarter PS2 Tabitha Longfellow Senior Sailor of the Quarter AD1 Richard Poland

VP-62 Junior Sailor of the Quarter AWF2(AW) Commodore Perry Sailor of the Quarter AWF1(AW) Shawn Turnvall

VP-62 Selected Reservist Junior Sailor of the Quarter AT2(AW) Ginger Whitehead Sailor of the Quarter AWO1(AW) Desmond Valdes

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 History - VOL. 67 • NO. 10 • NAS JACKSONVILLE, FLA - Thursday, March 12, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [14MAR2009]

Photograph Caption: A Plane Captain assigned to VP-30 signals the crew of a P-3C Orion during start-up checks. VP-30 is the U. S. Navy's Martime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron whose mission is to provide aircraft-specific training for pilots, naval flight officers and enlisted aircrew prior to reporting to the fleet.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAW1 Michael Tyson "...VP-30 Honors Reserve Sailor of the Year from VP-30 Public Affairs - Thursday, February 19, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [20FEB2009]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...NAS Jacksonville Sailors Participate In World Cup Event Story Number: NNS090209-05 Release Date: 2/9/2009 2:18:00 PM By Kaylee LaRocque, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs ..." WebSite: NavyNews http://www.navy.mil/ [14FEB2009]

Boca Raton, Fla. (NNS) -- Team Quicksand, comprised of six Sailors from Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, competed in the North American Grappling Association World Cup event Jan. 24 in Boca Raton, Fla.

Team members entered several different weight categories in the Grappling events which is a form of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling and other martial arts.

Led by their instructor, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Phillip Staats of the NAS Jacksonville Security department, the team has only been together for about six months and practices their skills three times a week before or after work.

"Most of the people who were competing do this full-time. We were competing with some of the best people in the country. It was our first competition and for several of our team members to place is just outstanding. They've worked really hard to learn this sport," said Staats, who has been involved in the sport for about 10 years.

Taking third place honors in their respective categories were Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman William Mastorio (180-pound division) and Aviation Machinist's Mate 3rd Class Taylor Proctor (light heavyweight division) both of VP-30 and placing fourth in the Featherweight division was Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Greg Baker of Fleet Readiness Center Southeast.

Other team members include: Master-at-Arms 1st Class Nathan Ouellette of the Security department, Electronics Technician 2nd Class Michael Rodgers of Naval Hospital Jacksonville and Aviation Machinist's Mate Airman Larry Sanchez of VP-30.

"My friend and I heard about this sport here and got in touch with MA2 Staats and started training with him. It's a great way to stay in shape," said Mastorio.

"This was our first competition. The hardest part was cutting the weight to meet my category. I had to drop eight pounds. It was a lot of sweat and hard work but I plan to continue competing."

"This is a new thing for all of us. I've watched the Ultimate Fighting Championships for several years and always wanted to try it," added Proctor. "It was a great experience competing and I plan to keep going to tournaments and vary my weight classes."

"I think the biggest thing that came from us participating in the competition was the reception we received. When people found out we were in the Navy, they were amazed because you usually don't see military members at these events. Dozens of people came up to us to find out what we do and how we train. It's a great billboard and recruiting tool for us to be at these events," noted Staats.

"Jiu-jitsu and grappling in general is pretty popular and a growing sport in the U.S. It's a martial art that originated in Japan actually through the use of judo. It's basically the art of being able to defend yourself when an attacker takes you to the ground especially if that person is bigger than you are. It teaches you how to avoid taking punishment," explained Staats.

"It is a legitimate sport and hopefully will be in the Olympics soon. It's one of the best sports there is because it promotes team unity, conditioning and respect for others," he continued. "There are many grappling tournaments all over the U.S. so we plan to compete in many more," added Staats.

The team pays for their own costs including hotels, gas, food, uniforms and gear.

"We tried to envision something that reflected our style which we call Battleship jiu jitsu to honor our naval service and our team patch with a photo of the battleship USS Pennsylvania," Staats said. "We wanted people to envision what it would be like to be swallowed by quicksand so when they fight one of us, that's kind of what goes on – they get engulfed with arms and legs coming from all angles."

Team Quicksand will compete in the North Florida Gi and No Gi Submission Qualifier III Tournament at University Christian High School in Jacksonville Feb. 21.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...P-3C Orion crews soar without ever leaving the ground - TORT: Full-service simulator allows pilots and crew to train together - By ATAA Adam Thomas, Assistant Editor - February 04, 2009 - 03:56 PM..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [07FEB2009]

P-3C pilots and aircrews are now training on the cutting-edge Tactical Operational Readiness Trainer (TORT) at NAS Jacksonville.

The TORT allows flight crews to train at a level of realism never before available in their training devices and earn readiness points from sorties completed in the simulator. The sophisticated system is designed to not only train new operators, but also to maintain an operational crew's proficiency without leaving the ground.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Photograph Caption: Engineers Alan Brown and Glen Claussen conduct final tests in the flight station during the installation of the Tactical Operational Readiness Trainer. Photo by John Price L-3 Communications

Built by L-3 Communications, Link Simulation & Training, TORT is a high fidelity, computer-controlled, real-time trainer that accurately simulates all surveillance equipment found on the P-3C Orion aircraft. The trainer includes crew stations for the tactical coordinator, navigation/communications officer, acoustic and non-acoustic operators, as well as a fully functional flight deck for the two pilots.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Photograph Caption: VP-30 Lead Fleet Projects Naval Flight Officer Lt. Brad Davies carefully manipulates the flight controls during a simulated training flight in the Tactical Operational Readiness Trainer (TORT). Davies, along with his testing team and Wing 11 Weapons Tactical Unit, worked in conjunction with L3 Communications and Naval Air Systems Command to ensure the TORT was ready for use in the fleet.

"By placing a greater emphasis on simulation-based training in the form of TORT, VP-30 aircraft can be better used performing operational missions versus supporting costly aerial training," explained VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Richard Fite.

"With the use of the P-3C TORT trainers, the U.S. Navy has sufficient resources to meet its crew readiness training needs on simulation-based devices," said John McNellis, president of L-3 Communications, Link Simulation & Training. "The need to conduct antisubmarine warfare or anti-surface warfare crew qualification flights in the aircraft will be dramatically reduced, which will lower training costs and extend the operational life of the P-3C Orion platform."

Patrol Squadron 30 (VP-30) Lead Fleet Projects Naval Flight Officer Lt. Brad Davies and his team consisting of Fleet Projects Lead Pilot Lt. George Adams, Fleet Projects Naval Flight Officer Lt. Justin Jennings, Fleet Projects Naval Flight Officer Lt. Seth Eisenmenger, Non-Acoustic Operator AWO1 Mike Zivotofsky and Acoustic Operator AWO1 Brian Oliastro, under the leadership of Division Officer Lt. Matt Anderson worked in conjunction with L-3 Communications & Naval Air Systems Command during the evaluating, testing and inspecting stages to insure the TORT simulator could properly prepare crews for the fleet.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Photograph Caption: Wing 11 Weapons Tactics Unit Lead Weapons Tactics Instructor Lt. Jason Mase scans the instruments of the Tactical Operational Readiness Trainer flight station while demonstrating the realism of the trainer.

TORT takes P-3C training to new heights by providing flight crews the ability to search for contacts, identify targets, program and release weapons and pass vital information into the Department of Defense global information grid (GIG). The GIG is a complex system of networkswhich links hundreds of information system elements to enable the rapid exchange of information among the U.S. military services, intelligence community and multi-national allies.

Furthermore, the GIG is a globally connected, end-to-end set of information capabilities, associated processes and personnel for collecting, processing, storing, disseminating, and managing information on demand.

The physical arrangement of the crew station and the layout of controls closely replicate that of the aircraft, allowing the development of natural crew-to-crew and crew-to-aircraft interactions. Each crew station provides an environment that immerses the operators into the scenario and allows for a more robust training experience.

Additionally the flight deck has been replicated to include useful flight station displays and computers, electronically controlled flight controls and aircraft seats. A 140-degree horizontal field-of-view visual display system allows for visual identification of targets, as well as tactical employment of weapons.

Before TORT, P-3C crews initially received training on the weapons system trainer, also known as the "knob-turner," which simulated antisubmarine warfare (ASW) only. The knob turner limited the pilot interaction to turning three knobs located on the console. Flight crews also received training on the tactical trainers used only to simulate intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. TORT combines ASW, antisurface warfare and ISR training into one simulator, increases the overall fidelity realism and enables crews to employ their systems in the simulator precisely as they do in the actual aircraft.

"I enjoy training in the TORT because it allows the operators and pilots to train together as a full crew, exactly as we would in the real aircraft," said Zivotofsky.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Photograph Caption: As many as six instructors can program the Tactical Operational Readiness Trainer to simulate anything from different weather conditions and combat scenarios to different geographical locations and water conditions. The instructors are able to interact with the different aircraft operator stations ensuring the students develop the skills needed to properly complete training events.

Future enhancements for the TORT will include the ability to conduct fleet synthetic training. Fleet synthetic training uses the GIG network connection to link different platform's nation-wide in a joint simulated training mission. For example, a P-3C crew at NAS Jacksonville, an Arleigh Burke destroyer deploying an SH-60B helicopter in San Diego and an aircraft carrier launching F/A-18s off the coast can simultaneously work together on the same simulated event instead of conducting individual live exercises.

"Being involved with the testing and evaluation of TORT, I am proud at how it has evolved. TORT will be an important asset to P-3 squadrons and the Navy. Working on this project was a very rewarding experience," stated Davies.

With such advancements in simulated training, P-3C Orion crews are more than prepared to see the fleet through to the next generation of antisubmarine warfare aircraft.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Photograph Caption: As many as six instructors can program the Tactical Operational Readiness Trainer to simulate anything from different weather conditions and combat scenarios to different geographical locations and water conditions. The instructors are able to interact with the different aircraft operator stations ensuring the students develop the skills needed to properly complete training events.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...'Pro's Nest' FCPOA Evaluates Projects by AW01(AW) Alain Carpentier - Thursday, January 9, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [09JAN2009]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 and VP-62 History "...VP-30 Wings Seven Naval Flight Offiers by LT Phollip Sautter (VP-62 and VP-30) - Thursday, January 9, 2009..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [09JAN2009]


Circa 2008

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Fourth Quarter 2008 Sailors of the Quarter - Thursday, February 23rd, 2009 (Squadrons Mentioned: VP-30, VP-45 and VP-62)..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [24APR2009]

VP-62 Junior Sailor of the Quarter PS2 Laura Rollins Sailor of the Quarter AWF1(AW/NAC) Cecil Honeycutt Selected Reservist Junior Sailor of the Quarter SK2 Eric Medina Sailor of the Quarter AM1(AW) Jeffrey Schwartz

VP-45 Blue Jacket of the Quarter PSSN Jeromy Greeson Junior Sailor of the Quarter AWO2(AW/NAC) Jevin Delgado Senior Sailor of the Quarter AWF1(AW/NAC) Charles Nannenga

VP-30 Blue Jacket of the Quarter ATAN Chris Reynolds Junior Sailor of the Quarter AME3 Lachelle Kilbarger Sailor of the Quarter AWV2 Samuel Houston

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Mishap Drill By LT Karen Hirko, VP-30 Aviation Safety Officer - Thursday, December 18, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [20DEC2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Sailors Brighten Tynes Elementary School By LT Philip Sautter - Thursday, December 4, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [05DEC2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Pro's Nest Sailors Treat Children By LT Phillip Sautter - VP-30 PIO - Thursday, November 20, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [21OCT2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPRAN Josh Herring "...VP-30 Welcomes IA Herring Home By LT Phillip Sautter - VP-30 PIO - Thursday, November 20, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [21OCT2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraCaptain Fite "...Legion of Merit Awarded to Captain Fite - Thursday, October 23, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [24OCT2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAircrew Wings "...Wings Oof Gold Awarded To New Aircrew by LT Phillip Sautter - VP-30 Public Affairs Officer (VP-1, VP-4, VP-5, VP-8, VP-10, VP-16, VP-26, VP-30, VP-16, VP-40 and VP-46. ) - Thursday, October 9, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [09OCT2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30/CPRW-11 History "...VP-30 Hosts Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group (VP-30 and CPRW-11) - Thursday, October 9, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [09OCT2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraCPO Selectees "...CPO SELECTEES (VP-5, VP-30, VP-62, CPRW-11 and CMO-11) - Thursday, September 4, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [29AUG2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Squadron Augment Unit - Providing Fleet Expertise To The Next Generation By LT(jg) Brandr Beekman-Ellner - Thursday, August 28, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [29AUG2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Final Flight for CDR Andrew Kenney - Thursday, August 21, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [25JUL2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 AE3 Mitchel "...Cycle Blessing - Thursday, July 24, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [25JUL2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...CPRG's Final Flight Splashes Down At VP-30 - Thursday, July 24, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [25JUL2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Meet the Pros at 'The Pro's Nest' - By MC1 Toiete Jackson, Fleet Public Affairs Center Detachment Southeast - Last modified Wed., July 09, 2008 - 06:48 PM..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [11JUL2008]

Providing Navy patrol squadrons with the best-trained naval aviators, naval flight officers (NFO), enlisted aircrew and maintenance technicians is the job of VP-30, the largest aviation squadron and single-site Maritime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) known throughout the fleet as the "Pro's Nest."

"Being the CO of the Navy's largest aviation squadron is incredible. Not because of the sheer numbers, but because of the quality. The team here is very strong. I feel extremely lucky to be leading such an impressive group of Sailors," said Capt. Richard Fite, commanding officer of VP-30.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Lt.j.g John Martin spends time in the "Hulk" trainer preparing for an upcoming exam. Martin is a student replacement pilot student at "The Pro's Nest" of VP-30. Photos by MC1 Toiete Jackson. MC1(AW) Toiete Jackson

Since its establishment in 1960, VP-30 has set the standard of professionalism in naval aviation. Just recently, the squadron completed an Aviation Maintenance Inspection (AMI) which they received a zero discrepancy report.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History CMDCM Charles Blackston grabs some health food to take back to his office. Photo by MC1 Toiete Jackson.

"Back in early January, Skipper Fite challenged the Pro's to raise the bar and work for a no-hitter (no error/discrepancies) all the time, not just for the week of our inspection," said Master Chief Avionics Technician Theodore Gallinat, P-8A Poseidon Fleet Integration Team LCPO.

"After being debriefed by the inspection team's lead officer that we were 41-0 with no programs off-track and none needing attention, the Skipper stood up and faced entire squadron and said 'You not only throw a no-hitter, you hit the ball and it is still going. Now we have to maintain that level of quality every day and not just in the maintenance department.' In our training department, we not only instruct replacement P-3 Orion flight crews, we're also in the lead for our follow-on aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon," said Gallinat.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History From left: AO3 Patrick Williams and AO2 Giancarlo Rosarias perform weapons inspections as part of preparation for conventional weapons technical proficiency inspection (CWTPI), which allows a squadron to use weapons. Photo by MC1 Toiete Jackson. MC1(AW) Toiete Jackson

The squadron's pride and professionalism can be seen through every Sailor, from the airman just completing "A" school and getting to his first command, to the men and women who come to the Pro's Nest with fleet operational experience and undergo the rigorous screening process for ground and flight instructors.

The squadron trains more than 600 officer and enlisted personnel annually, utilizing 17 P-3 Orion aircraft of various models.

They also provide specific aircraft and maintenance training for foreign military personnel from Argentina, Chile, Germany, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Portugal, Spain and Thailand.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History AD2 Arnold Knight installs the air baffle of a P-3C Orion as part of unscheduled maintenance. Photo by MC1 Toiete Jackson. MC1(AW) Toiete Jackson

The squadron also hosts exchange instructors from allied countries such as Australia, Canada, Chile, Germany, Netherlands and UK.

"I'm having a great time here, "said Flight Lt. Stuart Anderson, an Australian NFO instructor. "I 'm involved with training operations on a daily basis. The scope of VP-30 is much larger than how we do things back home."

Not only are the instructors enjoying their time at VP-30, but the students as well. AE3 Shannon Fitzgerald of Los Angeles, Calif. is the first member in her family to be in the military and is making them very proud with her choice to become an aircrewman. Fitzgerald is just completing the first phase of her training.

"I eventually want to fly so I figured this would be the best way to get my foot in the door," said Fitzgerald.

"It's very challenging yet rewarding at the same time. I had my first flight yesterday and it was a cool experience to finally put to use all of the studying and training to use."

The Pro's Nest maintenance department is comprised of 400 technicians that continuously commit to quality maintenance and day-to-day safety principles. More than 4,000 man-hours are expended daily to support the aircraft upkeep and flight schedules.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History AMAN Kara Earle and AM1 Todd Koch preserve the number three engine nacelle of a P-3C Orion aircraft as a requirement for inclement weather. Photo by MC1 Toiete Jackson. MC1(AW) Toiete Jackson

In the midst of ensuring there is consistency in the training and maintenance, the squadron is also gearing up for the future.

With the new P-8A Poseidon on the horizon, the men and women of VP-30 are already well ahead of the game in preparing pilots and flight crews for the next generation of patrol aircraft.

"The future of the Pro's Nest holds some challenges and endless opportunities. The P-3 is very much in demand, so training the fleet's future warriors is extremely important," explained Capt. Fite.

"We currently train every P-3C pilot, NFO and aircrewman in the maritime patrol and reconnaissance (MPR) community. Moreover, we are also working to introduce the P-8A Poseidon with an initial operational capability of 2013. As we stand up the P-8 force, the P-3 force will slowly draw down and formally retire in 2019. VP-30 will be extremely busy as we support the fleet's training on both of these platforms," said Fite

"Finally, the Pro's Nest will be heavily involved as the MPR community stands up an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) called Broad Area Maritime Surveillance (BAMS). The BAMS UAS will provide multi-sensor, persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance virtually anywhere in the world."

Bottom line, the Pro's Nest is prepared to support the MPR community with P-3 training, P-8 introduction and BAMS integration.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Assortment of Shipmates photographs!

For more information on VP-30 and their programs visit their website at https://www.netc.navy.mil/vp30home/.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...RIMPAC 2008 Exercise Set for June 20 through July 31 in Hawaiian Waters By RIMPAC Public Affairs, 6/25/2008 9:53:35 AM (Squadrons Mentioned: CPRW-2, CPRW-10 and VP-30)..." WebSite: THIRD Fleet http://www.c3f.navy.mil/ [27JUN2008]

The Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise for 2008 will take place in the Hawaiian operating area from June 29 through July 31. RIMPAC is a multi-national exercise designed to improve integration and interoperability as well as prepare forces for a wide range of potential combined joint operations and missions.

In keeping with the U.S. Maritime Strategy to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners, military units from 10 participating countries will come together in the largest combined force exercise conducted this year. Participating nations include Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.

RIMPAC forces include 20 U.S. Navy ships, 13 foreign ships, two Coast Guard vessels, three U.S. submarines, three foreign submarines, over 150 U.S. and foreign aircraft, 18 other U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units and 11 foreign units supporting this year's exercise. U.S. ships participating are the aircraft carrier, USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63); amphibious ships, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and USS Comstock (LSD 45); two guided-missile cruisers, USS Lake Erie (CG 70) and Port Royal (CG 73); five guided-missile destroyers, USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), USS Milius (DDG 69), USS O'Kane (DDG 77), USS Pinckney (DDG 91) and USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and two guided-missile frigates, USS Reuben James (FFG 57) and USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG 60).

U.S. support ships assisting with replenishment, refueling and other missions are fleet replenishment oilers, USNS Guadalupe (T-AO 200) and USNS Yukon (T-AO 202); fleet ocean tugs, USNS Navajo (T-ATF 169) and USNS Sioux (T-ATF 171); the ocean surveillance ship, USNS Able (T-AGOS 20); the oceanographic survey ship, USNS Sumner (T-AGS 61); freighter, SS Cape Gibson (T-AK 5051) and the rescue and salvage ship, USNS Salvor (T-ARS 52).

U.S. submarines participating in this year's exercise are USS Los Angeles (SSN 688), USS Key West (SSN 722) and USS Santa Fe (SSN 763).

Supporting the air component of the exercise are 15 squadrons/wings. They are CPRW-2 CPRW-10; "Vanguard" of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14; "Chargers" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 14; "High Rollers" of www.c3f.navy.mil/rimpac_2008.html

Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 85; "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 37; "Warlords" of HSL 51; "Gauntlets" of Electronic Attack Squadron 136; "Liberty Bells" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron 115; "Royal Maces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27; "Diamond Backs" of VFA 102; "Golden Dragons" of VFA 192; "Dambusters" of VFA 195; "Pro's Nest" of VP-30 and the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30.

Other participating naval units include Amphibious Squadron 7, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group One, Explosive Ordnance Mobile Unit 11, "Heavy Lifters" of Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 3, Navy Cargo Handling Battalions 1 and 8, and Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4.

U.S. Air Force participating units are 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, 25th Air Support Operations Squadron, 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron, 507th Air Refueling Wing, 965th Airborne Air Control Squadron, 199th Hawaii Air National Guard Fighter Squadron and the 203rd Hawaii Air National Guard Air Refueling Squadron.

The U.S. Coast Guard participating units are the cutter, USCGC Rush (WHEC 723); the patrol boat, USCGC Kiska (WPB 1336), a Marine Safety and Security Team and headquarters staff personnel.

U.S. Marine Corps units include two squadrons, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362 and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 225 and eight other Marine units, the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, 3rd Marine Division, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, Marine Aircraft Group 24, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24 and the Marine Forces Reserve.

Australian units participating are the amphibious ship, HMAS Tobruk (LSH 50); the frigate, HMAS Anzac (FF 150); the submarine, HMAS Waller (SSG 75); the support ship, HMAS Success (AOR 304) and units from the 92 Wing Detachment, Clearance Diving Team 4, Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving Task Group and Marine Air-Ground Task Force headquarters personnel.

Canadian units participating are frigates, HMCS Ottawa (FF 341) and HMCS Regina (FF 341); four squadrons, 405 Squadron, 407 Squadron, 435 Squadron and 409 Tactical Fighter Squadron and one dive unit, Fleet Diving Unit Pacific.

The Chilean unit participating is the frigate, CS Riveros (FF 18), as well as headquarters staff personnel.

Japan Maritime Self Defense Force units participating are destroyers, JS Makinami (DD 112), JS Haruna (DDH 141), JS Setogiri (DD 156) and JS Kirishima (DD 174); the submarine, JS Narushio (SS 595) and aviation squadron, Patrol Squadron Detachment 43.

The Netherlands unit participating is a diving team specializing in very shallow water exercises.

Peru is participating with headquarters staff personnel.

Republic of Korea units participating are destroyers, ROKS Yangmanchoon (DDH 973) and ROKS Munmu the Great (DDH 976); the submarine, ROKS Lee Sun Sin (SS 68); a maritime patrol aircraft and headquarters staff personnel.

The Singapore unit participating is the frigate, RSS Steadfast (FF 70).

The United Kingdom units participating are aviation squadrons, the "Nighthawks" of Squadron 23 and Royal Air Force, Kinloss Detachment; the dive unit, Fleet Diving Unit 2 (Very Shallow Water) Detachment and headquarters staff personnel.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Attains Inspection Perfection by LCDR Chris Artis - VP-30 PAO - Thursday June 19th, 2008 - JaxAirNews..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [21JUN2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera080612-N-8102J-004 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (June 12, 2008) "...Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Greg Tucker, left, assigned to the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 30, verifies rigging and adjustment on the nose wheel steering system cable tension after replacing the cable and control valve as Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Anthony Cassata observes. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Toiete Jackson (Released)..." WebSite: NavyNews http://www.navy.mil/ [18JUN2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera080612-N-8102J-052 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (June 12, 2008) "...Aviation Ordnanceman Casey Wheelock, assigned to the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 30, reads inspection procedures to Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Jeffrey Walker, left, and Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Patrick Bowers as they perform weapons inspections preparing for a conventional weapons technical proficiency inspection. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Toiete Jackson (Released)..." WebSite: NavyNews http://www.navy.mil/ [18JUN2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera080611-N-8102J-020 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (June 11, 2008) "...Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Giancarlo Rosarias and Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Michael Muncy, assigned to the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 30, repair a BRU-15 bomb rack for a P-3C Orion. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Toiete Jackson (Released)..." WebSite: NavyNews http://www.navy.mil/ [18JUN2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraENS. Dan Hansen "...VP-30 Announces Academy Appointments by Ensign Christopher Moore, Assistant PAO - Thursday, June 12, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [14JUN2008]

Photograph Caption: LEFT to RIGHT: AE3 Cory Poudrier, VP-30 Commanding Officer Captain Rich Fite and AE3 Daniel Murphy. Poudrier and Murphy were recently selected to attend the Naval Academy.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraENS. Dan Hansen "...NMCRS Fund Drive Continues - Thursday, May 22, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [23MAY2008]

Photograph Caption: ATC Scott Gamble of VP-30 works installs a ceiling on a new home as part of a Clay COunty Habitat for Humanity project.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAMC Thomas MacDonald "...Chief Recognized For Outstanding Volunteerism - Thursday May 1st, 2008 - JaxAirNews..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [03MAY2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: Wings of Gold Thumbnail "...Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Group - RADM Brian C. Prindle, USN. Wings of Gold - Spring 2008 - Page 6-8. (Squadrons/Wings Referenced: VP-62, VP-69, VQ-1, VQ-2, VPU-1, VPU-2, VP-1, VP-4, VP-5, VP-8, VP-9, VP-10, VP-16, VP-26, VP-30, VP-40, VP-45, VP-46, VP-47, CPRW-2, CPRW-5, CPRW-10 and CPRW-11..." WebSite: Association of Naval Aviation http://www.anahq.org/index.htm [23APR2008]
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Open VP History Adobe FileMaritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Group Article 166KB

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 AMCS(AW) Ducksworth "...VP-30 Sailor Speaks At Event - Thursday 3rd, 2008 - JaxAirNews..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [04APR2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Sailors in River Run..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [15MAR2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-8 and VP-30 History "...CHAMGER: Aviators Suffer Same Effects as SCUBA Divers - Thursday, March 6th, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [07MAR2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Helps Build New Homes - Thursday, February 21, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [22FEB2008]

Photograph Caption: ATC Scott Gamble of VP-30 works installs a ceiling on a new home as part of a Clay COunty Habitat for Humanity project.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 and VP-45 History "...MWR Liberty Cover Center Entertains The Single Sailor - Thursday, January 14th, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [15FEB2008]

Photograph Caption: YN3(AW) Joann Gonzalez, Shawn Livesey, ATAN Michael O'Donnel, AT3 Justin Campbell, Dmitry Osinovsky and Rusty Neesham from VP-30 and SK2(AW/SW) Patrick Harbin from VP-45

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Santa is Found! - Thursday, January 10th, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [11JAN2008]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Naval Flight Officers Receive Wings at VP-30 - Thursday, January 10th, 2008..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [11JAN2008]


Circa 2007

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Squadron Monthly Safety Newsletter - The Squawk - December 2007..." WebSite: VP-30 Official https://www.cnet.navy.mil/vp30home/index.htm [03MAR2008]
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Open VP History Adobe FileVP-30 The Squawk - December 2007 496KB

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Squadron Monthly Safety Newsletter - The Squawk - November 2007..." WebSite: VP-30 Official https://www.cnet.navy.mil/vp30home/index.htm [03MAR2008]
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Open VP History Adobe FileVP-30 The Squawk - December 2007 386KB

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Operation Christmas Child - Thursday, December 6th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [07DEC2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 IAs Support War on Terrorism - By LT Adam Schantz - VP-30 PAO - Thursday, December 6th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [07DEC2007]

History - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge Thumbnail

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAMAN Hrusa and RP3 Vanasselberg "...Operation Christmas Child - Thursday, November 22nd, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [23NOV2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 AW1 Lloyd Wood "...Community Outreach - Thursday, November 15th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [16NOV2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 Janie Williams "...Annual Monster Dash Brings Out Runners - Thursday, October 8th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [10NOV2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Flight Officers Receive Wings at VP-30 by LT Adam Schantz - Thursday, October 8th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [10NOV2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraLT Brian Hager "...VP-30 PRESENT NMCRS WITH CHECK by LT Adam Schantz - VP-30 PAO - LT Brian Hager of VP-30 present check for $76,000 to NAS Jax Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS). Accepting the check are from left, NAS Jax NMCRS Director Dave Faraldo, P.S. Semko and Frank Peake. - Thursday, August 30th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [02SEP2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 to hold change of command tomorrow - By Lt. Adam Schantz, VP-30 PAO - Thursday, August 30, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [30AUG2007]

History - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge Thumbnail
Capt. Richard FiteCapt. Tim Brewer


Capt. Richard Fite assumes command of VP-30 during a change of command ceremony tomorrow at Hangar 30, NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Fite relieves Capt. Tim Brewer, who has led VP-30 since August 2005. Retired Navy Rear Adm. Michael Holmes will be the guest speaker.

Fite was born in Washington D.C., the son of a career Air Force fighter pilot. He graduated from Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio with a Bachelor of Administration degree in political science and holds a Masters of Science Degree in national security strategy from the National War College. He received his commission through the Aviation Officer Candidate Program in December 1985.

Designated a naval flight officer in April 1987, his operational tours include VP-44 in NAS Brunswick, Maine, aide and flag lieutenant to Commander, George Washington Battle Group embarked on board USS George Washington (CVN 73) supporting operations Deny Flight, Sharp Guard, Vigilant Warrior and Southern Watch and as VP-47 operations officer at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, completing a deployment in support of operations Southern Watch and Desert Thunder. He also commanded VP-45 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida during which the squadron was awarded the Battle "E" and Chief of Naval Operations Safety "S."

Ashore, Fite served as Navy Recruiting District, Columbus, Ohio Officer Programs officer and was the Area Five 1992 Officer Recruiter of the Year. In 1999, he served as assistant chief of staff, Patrol Wings Pacific and additionally assumed the role as assistant chief of staff for Naval Activities upon the congressionally mandated closure of NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii and the staff's homeport shift to Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay. Major staff duty tours include the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Washington D.C. in the Aviation Assignment Division as the VP shore and sea detailer and OPNAV as the P-3/P-8A requirements officer, Air Warfare Division on the staff of Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Integration of Capabilities and Resources) in March 2005.

Fite assumes command of a squadron that has been marked by profound achievements during Brewer's tenure spanning from August 2005 to August 2007. During this period, the squadron earned its second consecutive Cmdr. T.G. Ellyson Award for aviator production excellence presented to the Navy's most effective fleet replacement squadron. Additionally, source selection for the maritime patrol community's next generation airframe, the P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft, occurred shortly before Brewer's arrival. Under his leadership, a comprehensive transition plan has been created that will ensure fleet integration of the Navy's newest type model series combat aircraft.

By establishing the undergraduate Maritime Flight Officer (UMFO) Program he revolutionized naval flight officer (NFO) training, which provides better-trained NFOs to the fleet. The UMFO program saves 3.8 million dollars annually. Of perhaps the greatest significance, VP-30 continued its record of safe flying operations under a challenging training environment. The squadron recently achieved 43 years of mishap-free flying totaling more than 425,000 flight hours.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraLT(jg) Bierbach "...In the nick of time - Hospital dash for expectant father a Navy adventure - By Loren Barnes - Naval Hospital Jacksonville - Public Affairs - LT(Jg) Timothy Bierbach kisses his first-born baby, Addison as his wife, Colleen, hold her in her arms as she recuperates in Naval Hospital Jacksonville's Maternal Infant Unit. LT(jg) Bierbach is attached to VP-30 - Thursday, August 23rd, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [24AUG2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraSailors Of The Quarter "...Sailors Of The Quarter - CPRW-11, VP-5, VP-16 and VP-30 - Thursday, August 9th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [10AUG2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Navy Notables - ASkyler on May 21, 2007 - 03:27 PM..." WebSite: PaddockTalk http://www.paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=55826 [22MAY2007]

The fleet honoree for Saturday's race at Lowe's Motor Speedway is Patrol Squadron THIRTY (VP-30). The "Pro's Nest" is the U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS). It is the largest squadron in Naval Aviation. VP-30's mission is to provide P-3 aircraft training for pilots, naval flight officers and enlisted aircrew, ensuring the fleet receives safe and competent replacement flight crewmembers reporting to the operational P-3 squadrons. More than 750 staff personnel directly or indirectly train more than 700 officer and enlisted personnel annually, utilizing 12 P-3 aircraft of various models. VP-30 was commissioned in June 1960 at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., to train flight crews for P-5 Marlin and P-2 Neptune aircraft. VP-30's awards include three Navy Meritorious Unit Commendations and the Chief of Naval Operations' Commander Theodore G. Ellyson Aviator Production Excellence Award for fiscal years 2004, 2005 and 2006.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraSailor Of The Quarter "...Sailor Of The Quarter - Menitoned: VP-4, VP-16, VP-30, VP-45 and CPRW-11 - Thursday, May 3rd, 2007 Vol. 65 - No. 18..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [04MAY2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 Command Structure..." WebSite: VP-30 https://www.cnet.navy.mil/vp30home/ [02MAY2007]

History ThumbnailCameraCO - CAPTAIN Timothy B. Brewer Captain Tim Brewer is a native of Hickory, North Carolina. He graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy earning a B. S. in Mechanical Engineering in 1982. He was designated a Naval Aviator in 1984.

Operationally, Captain Brewer served in VP-19 at NAS Moffett Field, California, conducting deployments to Misawa, Japan, Diego Garcia and Saudi Arabia. He served as the Flag Secretary to COMUSNAVCENT homeported in Manama, Bahrain during Operation DESERT STORM. Captain Brewer completed his VP department head tour at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii in VP-17 where he was the DET OIC in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. After VP-17 decommissioned in 1994, Captain Brewer served as the Operations Department Head in VP-9 including a Misawa, Japan deployment. After selecting for command, Captain Brewer served as Executive Officer and subsequently Commanding Officer of VP-9 from 1999-2001 in MCBH Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. During his tour, VP-9 was awarded the Battle Efficiency award. Following his command tour, Captain Brewer served as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations and later as Chief of Staff to Commander, Maritime, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Force, EUROPE in Naples, Italy, during Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM.

Shore assignments include VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California as a FRS instructor pilot. While Serving in VP-31 Captain Brewer was the Pilot Training Officer, alternate NATOPS Evaluator and was named the 1987 Instructor of the Year. Captain Brewer's other shore assignments include Patrol Wing TEN Current Operations and Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations at Commander, Patrol Wings, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Most recently, Captain Brewer served as the director of PERS-44 at Naval Personal Command in Millington, TN. Additionally, he earned a Masters Degree from the Naval War College and graduated with Distinction in 1993.

History ThumbnailCameraXO - CDR Mark Creaseyn Commander Mark Creasey is a native of Wilmington, Delaware. He graduated with merit from the United States Naval Academy in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. He reported to Pensacola, Florida and Corpus Christi, Texas for flight training and received his pilot wings in December 1992.

Upon completion of Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) training at VP-30, Commander Creasey reported to the "Batmen" of VP-24 stationed at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida in December 1993, serving as the Legal Officer and completing a deployment to Keflavik, Iceland. Following VP-24's decommissioning in April 1995, Commander Creasey reported to the "Mad Foxes" of VP-5, where he completed two tri-site deployments to Puerto Rico, Panama, and Iceland. He served as the Operations Plans Officer, Quality Assurance Officer, Mission Commander, and Instructor Pilot. He was selected as VP-5's nomination for the Association of Naval Aviation's (ANA) "Pilot of the Year" award in 1996.

In October 1997 Commander Creasey reported to VP-30 for duty as an FRS Instructor Pilot. He served as the Human Resources Officer, Schedules Officer, and Flight Officer and was also selected as a Pilot Instructor Under Training (IUT) Instructor and Air Show Demonstration Team Leader.

In February 2000 he reported aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN-73) in Norfolk, Virginia as Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer. He served as the V-3 Hangar Deck Officer, V-2 Catapult and Arresting Gear Division Officer, and qualified as Officer of the Deck (Inport). He deployed to the Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH.

In May 2002 Commander Creasey reported to the "Fighting Marlins" of VP-40 in NAS Whidbey Island, Washington for his operational department head tour. He completed a deployment to the Fifth Fleet AOR while serving as Safety / NATOPS Officer, Maintenance Officer, and Officer-in-Charge, Diego Garcia detachment.

In December 2003 he reported again to VP-30 for duty as Training Officer. He assumed the duties of VP-30 Executive Officer in 2005.

His awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy Achievement Medal (two awards), and unit and campaign decorations. He holds a Master's Degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and is a graduate of the USAF Air Command and Staff College Distance Learning Program.

History ThumbnailCameraCMDMC (AW/SW) Gary L. Dryer Master Chief Dryer was born in South Carolina and raised in Kentucky. Master Chief Dryer enlisted into the Navy under the delayed entry program in April 1979. He completed Basic Training in October 1979 and went on to attend Aviation Ordnance "A" school. He is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy in Newport, Rhode Island. He has received an Associates of Arts degree from Saint Leo University.

Master Chief Dryer has served onboard the USS MIDWAY (CV 41), USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71), USS TRENTON (LPD 14) and Attack Squadron 75 (VA-75) "Sunday Punchers" deploying onboard USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67) as ordnance shop LPO. He also served as the Combat Systems department LCPO onboard the USS TARAWA (LHA 1).

During his career he completed a total of eleven deployments to the Arabian Gulf, Western Pacific, North Atlantic, and the Mediterranean. Ashore Master Chief Dryer served as an Inventory Control Specialist at Naval Magazine Subic Bay, Philippines. He also served as weapons department Inventory Control LCPO at Naval Air Station Key West, Florida and Assistant Ordnance Officer at Commander Naval Surface Group Mediterranean, Naples, Italy.

His first Senior Enlisted billet was as the Collateral Duty Command Master Chief at Naval Air Facility Mildenhall, England. He since went on to serve as Command Master Chief of Naval Support Activity La Maddalena, Italy and Command Master Chief onboard USS O'Brien (DD-975) home ported in Yokosuka Japan.

His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon and various other service and campaign awards.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera070213-N-1810F-087 Jacksonville, Fla. (Feb. 13, 2007) "...Cryptologic Technician Seaman Shelbie Cain assigned to Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) dons her helmet for an immediate ditch drill during a training flight. VP-30 is the U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron whose mission is to provide aircraft-specific training for pilots, naval flight officers, and enlisted aircrew men prior to reporting to the fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lynn Friant (RELEASED)..." WebSite: Navy NewsStand http://www.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=43267 [04MAR2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera070213-N-1810F-039 Jacksonville, Fla. (Feb. 13, 2007) "...Airman Jesse Baron assigned to "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) signals to the crew of a P-3C Orion during start-up checks. VP-30 is the U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron whose mission is to provide aircraft-specific training for pilots, naval flight officers, and enlisted aircrew men prior to reporting to the fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lynn Friant (RELEASED)..." WebSite: Navy NewsStand http://www.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=43266 [04MAR2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera070213-N-1810F-050 Jacksonville, Fla. (Feb. 13, 2007) "...Airman Jesse Baron assigned to "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) signals to the crew of a P-3C Orion during start-up checks. VP-30 is the U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron whose mission is to provide aircraft-specific training for pilots, naval flight officers, and enlisted aircrew men prior to reporting to the fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lynn Friant (RELEASED)..." WebSite: Navy NewsStand http://www.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=43259 [04MAR2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by MC2(SW/AW) Rebecca Kruck "...MWR Planner - ATAN Jason Shimel of VP-45 and AE3 Mark Lassiter of VP-30, play a round of Flick during the Super Bowl Party held at the Zone February 4, 2007. Thursday, February 15, 2007 Vol. 65 - No. 7..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [02FEB2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Navy-Marine Corps Relief Socity Turns 103 - By Kaylee LaRocque - Editor. Thursday, February 1, 2007 Vol. 65 - No. 5 - Squadrons Mentioned: VP-16 and VS-22..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [02FEB2007]

Most of our volunteers come to us through word of mouth and I think our volunteers have fun working here. We try to make the job interesting. Recently, VP-30 has provided a number of volunteers who are officers waiting to start their flight training. They have proven to be outstanding caseworkers," added Bennett. "Once our volunteers complete a two-day training session to learn about what we do, our policies and budgeting skills, t hey sp end some t ime observing a trained volunteer. If they are working as a caseworker, they will also be observed while they handle cases until they are ready to do it on their own. Once they are trained, our caseworkers are empowered to make their own decisions and can approve up to $3,500 to help a client without getting prior approval.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Military Night at the circus. Thursday, January 25th, 2007 - Vol 65 No 4..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [26JAN2007]

Photograph Caption: The VP-30 Color Guard proudly displays colors as Ringmaster Ty McFarlan sings the national anthem to kick off the evening festivities at the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus at the Veterans Memorial Arena Friday night.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraLCDR Steve Maier and LT Hunter Stolldorf "...Disaster drill helps emergency crews stay prepared. Thursday, January 25th, 2007 - Vol 65 No 4..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [26JAN2007]

Photograph Caption: LCDR Steve Maier, a flight surgeon with VP-30 and LT Hunter Stolldorf, a flight surgeon with VP-16, take a victim's vital signs to determine his condition during the drill

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAD2 Adnan Abbasi "...Foreign dignitary visits. Thursday, January 25th, 2007 - Vol 65 No 4..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [26JAN2007]

Photograph Caption: AD2 Adnan Abbasi of VP-30 escorts Adm. Mohamman Afzal Tahir, chief of the naval staff in the Pakistan Navy, around VP-30 hangar during a tour January 19.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAW1(AW/NAC) Lloyd Wood "...New Motorcycle Course Evaluated Here. Thursday, January 18th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [22JAN2007]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAE3 Mark Lassiter "...Contest Winner Recognized. Thursday, January 4th, 2007..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [05JAN2007]

Photograph Caption: AE3 Mark Lassiter of VP-30 takes home $250, a mountain bike and a Liberty gym bag for saving Santa during this year's "Where's Santa Contest" sponsored by the NAS Jax Morale, Welfare and Recreation Liberty Department. The final clue spelled out Orion's wheels, which lead Lassiter to the wheel well of the P-3 on display at the front gate. Special thanks to GEICO for donating the $250. Neither MWR nor the U.S. Navy or any other part of the federal government officially endorses any company, sponsor, or its products or service.


Circa 2006

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto Courtesy of VP-30 "...VP-30 helping build homes for Habitat for Humanity. Thursday, December 7th, 2006 - Vol 64 Number 48..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [09DEC2006]

VP-30, a squadron well known for building replacement aircrew for the P-3 fleet is now trying its hand at building homes for Habitat for Humanity.

This spring, three families will move out of their inadequate housing and moving into a new home this spring, thanks to members of VP-30. This will be the first time one organization has supplied all the volunteers to build a Habitat for Humanity house in Clay County. The Sailors will build two, four-bedroom homes and one pre-manufactured home in Green Cove Springs. While only responsible for the construction of the one house, squadron personnel could be called upon to assist in construction on the other two homes as well. The concrete foundations, plumbing, electrical and heating/air conditioning work will be contracted out to local community construction companies and VP-30's volunteers will finish the rest.

"This is one of the best opportunities we have to help out in the community. Our squadron members and I feel a great sense of accomplishment contributing our time and efforts to this project," remarked AMI Chris Garcia, who coordinated the volunteers.

The homes should be completed in March 2007. Clay County Habitat for Humanity (CCHH) was created in 1977 by members of the Penny Retirement Community who helped disadvantaged neighbors repair their homes. In 1988, CCHH incorporated and continues to help "partner families" build simple, decent homes. The houses are sold to "partner families" at cost and are financed with affordable, no-interest mortgages. In addition to making a down payment and monthly payments, homeowner families invest 300-500 hours of their own labor working alongside volunteers. Habitat for Humanity now sponsors construction of new homes in many counties around the world and has the support and backing of many celebrities, businesses and volunteers.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Kaylee LaRocque "...LT(jg) Jeff Berger of VP-30, his wife, Tracey, and son, Jonah, patiently wait as international celebrity, Chef Emeril Lagasse signs some books for them at the NAS Jax Navy Exchange November 29. Thursday, December 7th, 2006 - Vol 64 Number 48..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [09DEC2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Kaylee LaRocque "...A P-3C Orion from VP-30 conducts training flights over NAS Jax on November 16. A recent survey showed increased stress levels when it comes to family readiness in deployable squadrons such as this. Thursday, November 30th, 2006 - Vol 64 Number 47..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [02DEC2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraCDR Drew Kenney (VP-30), AWAN Anthony Balver (VP-30) and LCDR Susan Miller (VR-58) "...Annual Turkey Trot brings out runners. Squadrons Mentioned: VP-30, VP-45 and VR-58. Thursday, November 23, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [25NOV2006]

It was the perfect day for the annual Turkey Trot Nov. 17 as 97 runners turned out to participate in the 5K run. The event is sponsored each year by the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department (MWR).

Placing first overall and first in the men's military category was Drew Kenny from VP-30 with a time of 17:36. Taking second in the military men's category was Hank Bruncuik of the Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation Center, coming in at 18:23 followed by Barry Buss of Commander Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic, Detachment Jax, who placed third with a time of 18:38.

In the military women's category, Susan Miller of VR-58 took first with a time of 20:43, followed by Chun Qin Mai of Fleet Readiness Center Southeast, coming in at 23:59 and Virginia Hernandez of VP-45, at 24:05.

Taking first in the male open division was Brett Beisker with a time of 20:40, followed by Mark Seidl coming in at 22:00 and Timothy Wimberely with a time of 25:58.

Christine Bell placed first in the female open division with a time of 21:53, followed by Candace McElroy coming in at 27:59 and Elisa Jacque in third with a time of 30:29.

After the run, an awards ceremony was held to present medals to the winners and six people were lucky enough to take home a turkey for the Thanksgiving holiday.

The next MWR-sponsored run will be the annual Jingle Bell Run Dec. 14 at 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 542-3239/3518.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAME2 Richard Reid (VP-30) and AM2 Aaron Andrea (VS-22) "...RPP helps Sailors find affordable housing - Thursday, November 9, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [10OCT2006]

Photograph Caption: NAS Jax Housing Office Management Assistant Cynthia Johnson explains the Rental Partnership to AME2 Richard Reid of VP-30 (back) and AM2 Aaron Andera of VS-22 at the housing office Nov. 6.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera061101-N-1810F-004 Jacksonville, Fla. (Nov. 1, 2006) "...Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Apprentice Aaron G. Ferchland assigned to Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) inspects his survival gear before a training flight. VP-30 is the U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron whose mission is to provide aircraft-specific training for pilots, naval flight officers, and enlisted aircrew men prior to reporting to the fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lynn Friant (RELEASED)..." WebSite: Navy News Stand http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=40526 [05NOV2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Bill Bonser "...VP-30 hold off HS-75 to win Flag Football Championship - By Bill Bonser - Sports Coordinator..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [14OCT2006]

Photograph Caption: Members of the VP-30 flag football team proudly display their trophy after winning the 2006 Flag Football Championship after defeating HS-75.

When the 2006 Flag Football League completed the regular season, Naval Hospital Jacksonville finished with an impressive 14-0 record to win the league and earn them the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. VP-30 was right on their tails, finishing with a 13-1 record and HS-75 was in third with an 11-2 record.

Thirteen teams made the playoffs anxious for the chance to win the 2006 Flag Football Championship.

The playoffs went as expected as Naval Hospital Jax and VP-30 won their first two games to set up their first meeting. VP-30 took a 12-7 lead at the half and held on to win, 18-13, to advance to the championship and handed Naval Hospital their first defeat of the entire season.

Naval Hospital's next challenge was to go up against HS-75. HS-75 was coming off two impressive wins defeating VP-45, 34-12 and VR-58, 27-6. HS-75 was hungry for an upset.

Naval Hospital held on to a 7-6 lead at the half, giving HS-75 a glimpse of hope that they could still upset the top team. The game was tied at 27 in the fourth quarter.

Naval Hospital was driving for a touchdown when a ball thrown down the middle was tipped in the air and HS-75 picked it off. With under a minute remaining in the game, HS-75 moved the ball methodically down the field and with seven seconds remaining, HS-75's Quarterback Paul Wilson connected with Jonathan Echols for a touchdown to upset Naval Hospital and eliminate them from the playoffs.

HS-75 was on a roll winning their last three games and knocking off the best team to give them a chance to win the championship against VP-30.

VP-30 was on top of their game and were ready for HS-75 as they took a 21-6 lead at halftime. HS-75 came storming back in the second half, scoring 12 points and shutting down the VP-30 offense. With less than a minute to play, HS-75 was faced with another opportunity to pull the game out at the last minute.

Once again, as HS-75 was moving the ball methodically down the field, VP-30 stiffened up near the goal line and forced HS-75 to a fourth and goal situation. Unfortunately, HS-75's Wilson's pass was knocked down in the end zone and their hopes of another comeback upset win ended. VP-30 was able to hold off HS-75 to win the 2006 Flag Football Championship.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhotos by MC1(SW) Bill Larned "...World War II Aviators Visit NAS Jacksonville, Florida - By MC1(SW) Bill Larned - Thursday, October 12, 2006 (Squadrons Mentioned: VP-30 and VP-104..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [14OCT2006]

Photograph Caption: Earl Bittenbender, a former Navy pilot during World War II, enjoys the pilot's seat of a P-3 Orion aircraft during a tour with VP-30 October 5.

Earl Bittenbender remembers co-piloting B-24 bombers during World War II. In close detail, he can describe Japanese bullets penetrating the cabin of his plane or attempting a landing with the runway lights off, navigating on bare instinct.

Bittenbender was one of 50 World War II veterans, all members of Pacific Bomber Squadron VP-104 visiting NAS Jacksonville, Florida for a tour, a peek inside a P-3 Orion aircraft and conversation with base personnel Thursday.

The pilots and crewmen operated in the Pacific theater of operations from Guadalcanal, Leyte and other islands from 1943-1945. The highly decorated group was the only Navy squadron to receive two Presidential Unit citations. Before deploying for war, the men received training at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Florida and NS Mayport.

Inside VP-30's auditorium, before seated veterans wearing ballcaps emblazoned with their squadron, Lt. Steve Bradfield displayed a brief film on the history of aviation antisubmarine warfare before taking questions. Many of the elder men and their relatives wanted to know where present day Pacific P-3 bases were or tacts about the plane. The video included a glimpse of the P-3's replacement, the Boeing P-8 multi-mission maritime aircraft, whose appearance drew curious reactions from the audience.

Inside the squadron's hangar, Bittenbender climbed a portable stairwell to examine a P-3 Orion aircraft which personnel from VP-30 made available for the veterans to see. Near the communications section, he observed how Navy radio equipment has shrunk dramatically since World War II.

"In my day the radios were huge compared to their size now. They used tubes instead of transistors and occupied a large amount of space inside a B-24," he said.

Another veteran who took notice of the P-3 was Walt Cavinee, who served as a plane captain during the war. One day, while Cavinee stood outside a plane on one of the Pacific islands, a Japanese plane dove low to begin a strafing run. Before opening fire, the plane's body struck Cavinee and three other men.

"When I awakened in the hospital, I had no idea of what had hit me. I had several wounds on my body. No one knew what had happened. I had no witnesses, because the other Sailors standing with me had been killed," said Cavinee.

Still inside the P-3, Bittenbender walked all the way forward to the cockpit and sat in the pilot's seat of the P-3. His face flickered with recognition as a memory flashed across his mind.

"One night we were flying and received gunfire from Japanese fighter planes. Two of my crewmen got hit, one close to his eye. But both still performed their jobs. We felt the adrenaline, but kept focused. Everything became instinctive," Bittenbender said.

Lunch at the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Officers' Club concluded the base visit, followed by a tour at Heritage Park, where the veterans made nostalgic remarks about the evolution of naval aviation.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhotos by Bill Bonser "...VS-22 Takes Summer Basketball Championship - By Bill Bonser - Sports Coordinator - Thursday, September 21, 2006 (Squadrons Mentioned: VS-22, VS-24 and VP-30..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [22SEP2006]

VS-22 finished the regular summer basketball season with a perfect 11-0 record. Naval Hospital Jax finished second with an 8-3 record.

In the playoffs, VS-22 had very little trouble with VS-24, defeating them 85-47. Their second game of the playoffs was more of a challenge after scoring a narrow defeat over VP-30, 82-76.

Their next opponent was Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) Jax and once again they dominated the game, 84-58 to put them in the championship game.

Meanwhile, VP-30 stayed alive in the loser's bracket defeating VS-24, 73-65 and AIMD 600 65-56. Their biggest test was AIMD 400 who gave them a run for their money keeping the score close throughout the game.

VP-30 escaped with a narrow 72-70 victory. The victory was enough to give them another shot at VS-22 for the championship.

The championship game was tight in the first half and VP-30 was ahead 44-42 at the half. In the second half at the 12:18 mark, VS-22 took a 49-48 lead for the first time since halftime.

The score was tied at 57 with 7:30 remaining. VS-22's Gabriel Speed hit three consecutive three pointers for his team. VP-30 did not fold and captured the lead 64-63 with 6:11 remaining in the game.

The score was tied at 68 with 5:15 left, however, VS-22 began to pull away down the stretch and took a 77-70 lead with 2:18 remaining in the game. VP-30 had to resort to fouling to stop the clock and VS-22 was able to convert their free throws to win the game, 83-78.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Shannon Leonard "...Cancer Awareness Fair - Thursday, September 21, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [22SEP2006]

Photograph Caption: LT.j.g. Peter Kuzetka of VP-30, shakes hands with Donna Hicken, breast cancer survivor and First Coast News anchor, during a book signing at the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Commissary were she signed books and greeted people. Hicken was invited to the store to participate in the commissary's Cancer Awareness Fair. The event was sponsored by the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Commissary and Lorie White of Hersey's and Overseas Service Corporation.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by MC3 David Dider "...MWR Planner - Mission First, Sailors Always - Thursday, September 21, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [22SEP2006]

Photograph Caption: LT.j.g. Luke Huston from VP-30, purchases Daytona 500 Keech box seats at the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Morale Welfare and Recreation Information, Tickets and Tours office for the race in February.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto courtesy of VP-30 "...VP-30 Flight Officers Get Wings By Lt Steve Bradfield - VP-30 PAO - Thursday, September 21, 2006. (Squadrons Mentioned: VP-30, VP-45, VT-4 and VT-10)..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [22SEP2006]

Photograph Caption: Ensign Jessee Cleland receives his naval flight officer wings from his fiancee, Catherine Dziok, during the ceremony.

VP-30 began a new era in naval flight officer (NFO) training recently by conducting their first NFO winging ceremony. This ceremony was the result of the Chief of Naval Air Training's (CNATRA) trial initiative known as the Undergraduate Maritime Flight Officer (UMFO) Program. Through this initiative, CNATRA hopes to streamline the P-3 NFO training pipeline while providing the maritime patrol community a better product.

During the ceremony, VP-30's Commanding Officer Capt. Tim Brewer awarded NFO wings to: Ensigns Jon Baccus, Jesse Cleland, Drew Mickleth wait and Justin Rogers. The event and reception drew family members and friends from around the country.

For Rogers, a Jacksonville native and former aviation warfare systems operator at VP-45, this designation brings extra significance as he has exchanged his service in a support capacity, for a top leadership position within a P-3 tactical crew.

The recipients have completed the undergraduate maritime flight officer syllabus, earning their wings. The four will now enroll in the CAT 1 fleet replacement squadron (FRS) syllabus. Their anticipated graduation date is scheduled for Feb. 9. Upon their graduation at VP-30, they will report to various operational patrol squadrons to begin their initial sea tour.

The NFO training pipeline begins with aviation preflight introduction (API) instruction in Pensacola, Fla. After completing API, all student NFOs report for primary training at VT-10 or VT-4, also at NAS Pensacola, Florida. In the traditional training track, multi-engine designated NFOs attend advanced navigation training at Randolph AFB in San Antonio, Texas.

Upon completion of this course, they are awarded their wings of gold prior to transferring to VP-30 where they receive P-3 FRS training. The four UMFOs reported directly to VP-30 following completion at VT-10 or VT-4.

With the continued success of this experimental initiative, CNATRA may begin sending all maritime NFO's directly from primary flight training to VP-30, bypassing advanced training at Randolph AFB. The primary and VP-30 courses would add additional events to accommodate the loss of advanced training.

As a result, the process would reduce current redundancies in training, reduce the number of PCS moves, create a focus on P-3 specific NFO training, all while reducing the overall training time by 10 weeks.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraBrady Fitzgerald and David Hunt "...Brady Fitzgerald (right) of VR-58, was the 2006 Captain's Cup Fall Racquetball Champion and David Hunt of VP-30, finished second..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [16SEP2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...CPO Selectees Give Back To The Community - By IT1 /John Mullen - Special Contributor..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [01SEP2006]

Photograph Caption: AT1 Leonard Myers of VP-30, caulks a baseboard in a new HABIJAX home.

Several NAS Jacksonville, Florida chief selectees rolled up their sleeves Aug. 19 to lend a helping hand to HabiJax by working on some new homes for Jacksonville residents. "It's an incredible feeling to be involved with this project, we are literally putting a roof over someone's head," said HM1 Jonathon Wells of the Disease Vector Ecology and Control Center.

Under the direction of expert builders, volunteers are able to accomplish tasks that significantly reduce the cost of building a new home. With this direction and a morning prayer, the chief selectees set out to make a difference. The goal for the day, presented by the HabiJax staff, was to prepare and prime a new home located in the McNair Park Villas, a HabiJax community comprised of 94 new homes.

The first task was to ensure the molding and doors were smooth and ready for the paint primer. The caulking guns and wood putty were put to swift use and the work went by quickly. After this had been completed, the paint primer was applied to the unfinished surfaces. Many of the volunteers had done this type of work before on their own homes and drew upon this knowledge to execute the tasks with precision.

Having accomplished the goal set forth earlier, the consensus among the group was to push forward and paint the walls,putting future teams of volunteers ahead of schedule.

The humidity was high, and the term "sweat equity" was realized by this group of resolute volunteers. The Navy was well represented and the term "chiefs pride" was felt not just by the chief selectees but by the staff of HabiJax and the other volunteers. The smiling faces of everyone involved depicted the pride and accomplishment felt within. "It was nice to volunteer my time for a good cause. I spent time with some new friends and I will do it again in the future," stated ATI Leonard Myers of VP-30.

HabiJax is a faith-based organization which relies on volun-teerism, donations and the sweat equity of the new homeowners to lower the cost of building a new home which in turn allows median to low income Duval County residents the opportunity to own a new home. Since 1998, HabiJax has built 1,300 homes throughout the greater Jacksonville area. Homeowners must invest at least 300 volunteer hours into the building of not just their own home but of others as well. The mortgage is a zero percent loan over a term of 25 years, which in turn goes into the building of other homes.

Volunteers do not have to be experienced. If you are interested in joining the effort to bring affordable housing to those who desperately need it, please call the HabiJax Volunteer Services Department at 798-4529, Ext. 252.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera060816-N-8544C-003 Jacksonville, Fla. (Aug. 16, 2006) "...Lt. Greg Englebert assigned to the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) gives a tour to midshipmen candidates from the University of Florida Naval Recruit Officer Training Course at Gainesville Fla. (UF NROTC). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Susan Cornell (RELEASED)..." WebSite: NavyNews http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=38086 [27AUG2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera060816-N-8544C-003 Jacksonville, Fla. (Aug. 16, 2006) "...Lieutenants Justin Fisher and Greg Englebert assigned to the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) gives a tour to midshipmen candidates from the University of Florida Naval Recruit Officer Training Course at Gainesville Fla. (UF NROTC). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Susan Cornell (RELEASED)..." WebSite: NavyNews http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=38085 [27AUG2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-5 and VP-30 "...'The Roar' Visits NAS Jacksonville, Florida - Thursday, August 24, 2006 (Squadrons Mentioned: VP-5 and VP-30)..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [25AUG2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...P-8A mobile demo trailer visits NAS Jacksonville, Florida By Lt. Steve Bradfield, VP-30 PAO - Thursday, August 24, 2006 (Squadrons Mentioned: VP-30, VP-45 and CPRW-11)..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [25AUG2006]

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce Lt. Cmdr. Dan Parilla of VP-30, evaluates the P-8A flight controls during his simulated sortie Aug. 11.

The Boeing Corporation's P-8A Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA) demonstration trailer made a stop at NAS Jacksonville Aug. 11 as part of their nine-week cross-country tour.

The P-8A is a military derivative of the next generation 737-800 commercial aircraft and is the Navy's replacement platform for the P-3C. The state-of-the-art demonstration trailer provided a first-hand look into the latest technology being incorporated into the new weapon system. The demonstration trailer included a high fidelity cockpit flight simulation linked with three mission operator consoles and simulated sensors.

More than 300 aircrew and Sailors had the opportunity to participate in guided demonstrations of the 21st century workstations and operational mission software, and participated in simulated test flights experiencing some of the mission qualities the P-8A aircraft will bring to the fleet. The demonstration trailer also included high bandwidth satellite connectivity enabling distributed simulations and network-centric demonstrations between the trailer and other Boeing Integration Centers across the country.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce Boeing's P-8A Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA) mobile demonstration trailer is on a nine-week, cross-country tour to give P-3 pilots and workstation operators a hands-on experience with the new aircraft.

The day prior to the tours, a combined team from Boeing and Naval Air Systems Command, provided Sailors from VP-30 and squadrons assigned to Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven a thorough brief on the MMA program and detailed information about the open architecture mission system. "It's is great to get out and see the fleet, our customer in this development effort, and see them walk away excited about the product we plan on delivering to them in the coming years," said Egan Greenstein of the Boeing Corporation. "The trailer enables us to provide a more exciting, more realistic, demonstration of the P-8A's capabilities."

Capt. Tim Brewer, commanding officer of VP-30, after receiving a tour said, "I wish I was 15 years younger so I could get the chance to fly this aircraft. The Boeing-NAVAIR team, combined with input from the fleet, is obviously on track to deliver a weapon system that will bring with it a huge leap forward in anti-submarine warfare technology."

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce Boeing's Carrie Ann Hrastich stands by as AWAN Marvelous Salters of VP-45, evaluates the workstation software capabilities.

The Boeing-led P-8A team, which includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and Smiths Aerospace will produce five test aircraft during the program's system development and demonstration phase. The Navy plans to purchase up to 108 aircraft to replace its aging fleet of P-3 aircraft. The first aircraft will be delivered for flight test in 2009 and initial operational capability is slated for 2013.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto courtesy of VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Tim Brewer operates a P-8A Mission System console on board the P-8A demonstration trailer.

History ThumbnailCameraPhoto courtesy of VP-30 Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven Capt. Sean Buck (center) and his Chief Staff Officer Cmdr. Jim Debold (right) discuss P-8A capabilities with Egan Greenstein of the Boeing Corporation.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhoto by Clark Pierce "...VP-30 Hosts Midshipmen - Thursday, August 24, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [25AUG2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Mentors Navy Recruits - Helps Recruit Training Command Reduce Attrition Rate By 50 percent - Thursday, August 10th, 2006 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [11AUG2006]

To develop better informed Sailors with realistic expectations of what is in store for them in the fleet, VP-30 Command Master Chief Gary Dryer and other volunteers made four visits to Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes, from May to July, to help train Recruit Division 203.

"The Division Sponsorship Program helps improve RTC coordination with the Navy recruiting network and the fleet," said Dryer. "Under this program, fleet commands send senior enlisted leaders to RTC to work with a recruit division throughout their nine weeks of basic training. It allows fleet interaction and feedback to help produce Sailors with clear expectations of what to expect when they receive their first fleet assignment."

" The Division Sponsorship Program one of several programs and initiatives that have enabled RTC Great Lakes to slash its attrition rate by 50 percent.

The VP-30 team first met Division 203 at their commissioning ceremony on May 27. Cmdr. McKinney, CMDCM (AW/SW) Gary Dryer, AMCS (AW) Peter Kent, AT1 (AW/NAC) John Markee, and AW1 (AW/NAC) Tony Bishop presented the 95 recruits with a VP-30 Command Pennant and VP-30 workout shirts. After the ceremony they held a question and answer session to provide motivation and quell the recruits' anxieties about Navy life.

On June 16, the team observed Division 203 during Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) Day. Kent, AW1 (AW/NAC) Cannon and AM1 (AW) Echeverry ran along with their recruits. This show of teamwork helped motivate Division 203 to pass their final PFA with zero deficiencies.

PRC (AW/SW) Mike Johnson and AW1 (AW/NAC) Bishop visited on July 21 to rally the recruits during the arduous "battle stations" evolution that challenges them physically and mentally. Johnson and Bishop provided encouragement throughout the evolution that began at 1900. It ended the following day at 0800 with an emotional ceremony where the recruits swapped their "recruit" ball caps for "Navy" ball capsćsymbolizing their transformation into Sailors.

On July 29, Dryer, Kent and Bishop attended Division 203's graduation where Dryer served as reviewing officer for the Pass-in-Review and delivered a short speech.

Dryer was enthusiastic about how the RTC Division Sponsorship Program give recruits a head start in their adjustment to Navy culture. "Boot camp has come a long way since my day. Recruits are getting less of the abstract and more of the practical skills they will need in the fleet. I know the recruits benefited from the support we provided.

" VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Tim Brewer agreed with Dryer and has volunteered to sponsor another RTC division beginning August

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 and VP-45 "...USO Volunteers Stuff Back-To-School Packs - By Clark Pierce - Staff Writer - Thursday, August 3rd, 2006 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [04AUG2006]

"It's important that kids arrive at school ready to learnćand that means carrying a back pack with all the needed classroom supplies," said Sonja Kutsch, USO program director at NAS Jacksonville, Florida.

One dozen volunteers gathered at the USO on July 28 to fill more than 60 packs for the children of active duty personnel who were nominated by their commands.

"We're packing for Pre-K, kindergarten, and the first through fifth grades," explained Kutsch. "Thanks to the concern and generosity of our Navy Exchange and numerous commands, the support for this project was outstanding. In addition to back packs, notebooks, composition books and loose leaf paper, we have an ample supply of pens, pencils, glue, crayons, folders, scissors and pencil cases."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Sailors Help Remodel Home For Special-Needs Children - VP-30 Sailor AM2(AW) Gilda Ramirez cleans up the front portch during the demolition stage of the project. - Thursday, July 20, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [22JUL2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...An Afternoon On The River - Photos by Shannon Leonard - Thursday, July 20, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [22JUL2006]

ADAN Ian Usry (left) and ATAN Jason Shimel (right) from VP-30 get a push from Assistant Liberty Coordinator Darlene Bielarski during an afternoon of free canoeing at the Mulberry Cove Marina as part of the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Morale, Welfare and Recreation Liberty Boats and Burgers event.

There was a free cookout and canoeing July 13 for all E1-E5 single Sailors. Active-duty members can use kayaks and canoes free every Thursday at the marina. For more info on Liberty Programs, call 542-1335.

A group of Marines from the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Jax enjoy a free cookout at the Mulberry Cove Marina as part of the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Morale, Welfare and Recreation Liberty Boats and Burgers event July 13.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Golf Benefit Generates $54,000 - Thursday, July 13, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [15JUL2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...Car Winner - Thursday, June 22, 2006 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida - Ray Arsua and his wife happily accept a 2006 Honda Civic LX after his winning ticket was drawn by VP-30 Commanding Officer Captain Tim Brewer...." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [24JUN2006]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Bids Farewell To Allied Aviators - By Lt. Steve Bradfield - VP-30 PAO - Thursday, May 15, 2006 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [17JUN2006]

It was a day of mixed emotions May 24 as three of VP-30's most experienced foreign exchange instructors took to the skies for the last time in a P-3 Orion. After a highly productive liaison lasting more than 20 years, the Dutch and British Personnel Exchange Programs (PEP) will come to a close, resulting in the loss of four alliedinstructors at VP-30.

Last year, the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) decided to sell it's P-3 fleet to Germany, while reductions in the British Royal Air Force (RAF) resulted in the loss of a Nimrod MR2 Squadron and a subsequent decrease in personnel exchange billets.

While VP-30 loses much in expertise and unique perspective from these changes, they continue to benefit from a cadre of outstanding PEP officers from Australia, Canada, Chile and Germany.

To mark the occasion, staff and students from five countries conducted a tactical training flight together. Allied instructors are involved in all aspects of VP-30's training and this flight was no different.

Sgt. Maj. Richard Van Rhijn, RNLN, conducted a Flight Engineer instructor under training event for AME1 Adkins, while Squadron Leader Tim Monk, RAF, supervised Capt. Travis Field, Canadian Air Force (CAF) and Lt. Bart Freriks, RNLN, trained a new German Tactical Coordinator Kapitan Lt. Thomas Krey.

The flight consisted of antisubmarine warfare and antisurface warfare training before conducting one last low-level overflight of downtown Jacksonville via the St. Johns River. Upon return to NAS Jacksonville, Florida, a welcoming committee consisting of VP-30's Capt. Tim Brewer, squadron personnel and the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Fire Department greeted the allies with the traditional soaking, compliments of the fire crew.

This flight was a major milestone for Van Rhijn as he surpassed 5,000 flight hours in the P-3. Jim Paroles from Lockheed Martin (the P-3 manufacturer) was in attendance to present Van Rhijn with a Lockheed certificate, patch, and pin denoting the accomplishment.

Capt. Derrick Hotte, CAF, also presented Van Rhijn the Silver Pin from VPI, an international maritime patrol organization. The distinction for VPI members signifies 5,000 flight hours in any maritime patrol aircraft, regardless of airframe or nationality.

Van Rhijn leaves Jacksonville and the RNLN to fly C-130s with the RNLAF. In-Flight Technician Sgt. Maj. Peter Aerts, RNLN is returning to the RNLAF.

Freriks returns to the RNLN to serve on an air defence ship, while Monk is taking a staff appointment in the United Kingdom.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Golf Tourney To Benefit NMCRS - By Lt. Steve Bradfield - VP-30 PAO - JaxAirNews Thursday May 18, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [19MAY2006]

This year's 15th annual NMCRS Benefit Golf Tournament will be held May 25. The cost is $80, which includes green and cart fees. Outback Steakhouse is providing lunch.

"It's a great way to raise money for a great charitable organization," said Tournament Director Lt. Ryan Lilley of VP-30.

Last year's Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) Golf Benefit was a huge success. The Jacksonville area NMCRS Golf Benefit Committee nearly doubled the 2004 effort by raising $60,000 through corporate generosity. All contributions benefited local Sailors and Marines at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, NS Mayport and NSB Kings Bay, Ga.

The NMCRS was founded in World War II with a federal bond. The interest on that bond pays for the operating expenses of the charity today. Every penny donated goes directly to the Sailors and Marines in need of financial assistance.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP native becomes naval aviator with Wings of Gold - by Lawerence W. Synett - May 17, 2006..." WebSite: Villa Park Review http://members.aol.com/lombardian/vpnews0620b.html [19MAY2006]

A Villa Park native recently completed the long road to becoming a naval aviator when he had the Wings of Gold pinned on him during a 'winging' ceremony conducted at the NAS Corpus Christi, Texas on March 17.

Lt. j.g. Darren Randolph, who graduated from Willowbrook High School in 1999, was assigned to Training Squadron Thirty-Five (VT-35), the "Stinging Stingrays."

"It is quite admirable what he has achieved because of the amount of work and the expectations that were involved," said Dianne Randolph, Darren Randolph's mother.

Darren Randolph, 25, began his training in Training Squadron Twenty-Eight (VT-28) at the NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. The pilot training took over 64 weeks.

Pilot training included aircraft familiarization, basic instruments, precision aerobatics, formation flying, night familiarization and radio instruments.

According to Randolph, who attended the winging ceremony with her husband, son and daughter, it was surprising the responsibility, knowledge and preparation it took to achieve something like this.

"The Navy personnel on hand were very proud of the students' accomplishments," added Randolph.

Randolph also commented on her experience at the Naval Air Station Corpus Christi.

"Everyone was very friendly and diplomatic," said Randolph. "The students were all quite prepared for what they would go through and mastered many things."

VT-35 is one of four aviation training squadrons attached to Training Air Wing Four and is one of two advanced multi-engine training squadrons in the U.S. Navy. Advanced Maritime Training in the C-12 Huron emphasizes crew coordination, multi-engine aircraft operations and instrument training in a variety of day and night conditions.

VT-35's primary mission is to provide advanced multi-engine pilot training for Naval and Air Force students who will fly the C-130 Hercules, the C-12 Huron or the P-3C Orion. In addition, VT-35 provides training for Navy aviators going to test pilot school.

According to Randolph, even as a young child her son had the admiration and determination to do something like this.

"His stubbornness as a little child turned into determination as he grew older," quipped Randolph. "Early on, he had admiration for the values that our country represents. He will set his mind to something and he will do it."

Darren Randolph's next duty station is Patrol Squadron 30 (VP-30), located in NAS Jacksonville, Florida, where he will fly the P-3C Orion in support of missions all over the world.

He attended the University of Illinois in Champaign, where he graduated in the December of 2003. While in school, Darren Randolph was a member of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC).

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhotos by JO1 Mike England "...Education Fair Provides Sailors With Opportunities (VP-5 and VP-30 Mentioned) - Thursday, May 4th, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [06MAY2006]

By JO1 Mike England
Assistant Editor

The NAS Jacksonville, Florida Navy College Office held an Education Fair April 25 at the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Officers' Club.

The fair brought colleges and universities together at a central location and gave service members and their families a chance to learn more about the educational opportunities available at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. The educational institutions offered program information, accepted applications and conducted interviews.

"This is a great opportunity to meet different schools and learn about a variety of programs in one forum," said Diane Argo, an education services specialist at the NAS Jacksonville, Florida Navy College Office.

Argo also said that all of the schools located on NAS Jacksonville, Florida participated in the education fair.

"People are getting the chance to learn about the Navy's rating relevant programs. It broadens their horizons as to what kinds of programs are out there," Argo stated.

According to Joe Snowberger, a community relations coordinator for Columbia College, many service members don't realize what's out there or how much they stand to gain by getting their degree.

"Too many veterans don't realize the value of college education," Snowberger said. "They need to realize that they are selling themselves short by not taking advantage of all of the opportunities afforded them."

Many NAS Jacksonville, Florida Sailors and family members attended the education fair hoping to find ways to better themselves through education. VP-5 Sailor IS1(AW/SW) Kim Danner liked the fact that so many schools were in the same room. "It's great that Navy College is here to keep the troops informed of the educational opportunities they have while in the service," Danner said. "This education fair will make my school search a whole lot easier."

NAS Jacksonville, Florida Supply Department Leading Chief Petty Officer SKCM(SW) Raffy Delacruz attended the fair so that he could keep his Sailors informed about what's out there. "This is a great opportunity for me to keep my Sailors up to date on what the Navy has to offer them," Delacruz stated. "I hope that this fair can give my Sailors an appreciation of what they can do on shore duty. Every Sailor should get their degree before they get out."

For more information on education programs available at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, contact the Navy College Office at 542-2477.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraNAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Chip Dobson "...VP-30 wins 2005 Captain's Cup - By Lt. Steve Bradfield, VP-30 PAO - Thursday, April 27, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/042706/mil_vp30001.shtml [28APR2006]

Photograph Caption: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Commanding Officer Capt. Chip Dobson presents VP-30's Executive Officer Cmdr. Mark Creasey with the 2005 Captain's Cup Trophy April 5. Photo courtesy of VP-30

The NAS Jacksonville, Florida Captain's Cup trophy was presented to the men and women of VP-30 April 5 for prevailing in the yearlong multi-sport competition. This presentation marks VP-30's sixth award in the past seven years.

With its rebirth in 1998, the Captain's Cup is awarded annually to the command that has demonstrated the highest level of participation and achievement in the NAS Jacksonville Captain's Cup Athletics Program during a calendar year. There are 22 sporting events with 15 team sports and seven individual sports. In order to level the playing field for smaller commands, participation points scoring is computed depending upon the number of personnel in each command.

Sporting events include: basketball, bowling, flag football, golf, racquetball, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball, the Turkey Trot 5K and Jingle Bell Jog 5K. Some sports have various forms, such as indoor and sand volleyball.

This year's competition included 53 commands with varying participation levels. VP-30 participated in 18 events, earning enough overall points to prevail in 2005 and take back the trophy from last year's recipient - Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment Jax who came in a close second.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraTech Expo "...Tech Expo comes to NAS Jacksonville, Florida - Thursday, April 27, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [28APR2006]

NAS Jacksonville hosted a Technology Expo at the NAS Jax Officers' Club Friday. The event featured more than 25 exhibitors demonstrating the latest in multimedia computers, IT products, secure data solutions and much more. From left, VP-30 Sailors CMDCM(AW/SW) Gary Dryer, YNC(AW/SW) Scott Jenkins and AOC(AW/SW) Leonard Evans listen to 3M Visual Systems Representative Brad Ashbrook explains his company's visual wall display during the event.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-742 Members Reunite At VP-30 - By Lt. Steve Bradfield - VP-30 Public Affairs Officer - Thursday, March 30, 2006 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [01APR2006]

VP-742 was a reserve patrol squadron at NAS Jacksonville between November 1956 and January 1968. Each year, a number of officers who remain in touch, reunite to relive their aviation days. This March, VP-30 coordinated a weekend tour of Hangar 30 and one of their P- 3 aircraft to support the reunion.

Retired VP-742 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Bob Stubbs from Middleburg, Fla. was among the eight retired officers in attendance. Stubbs, the eldest of the group at 80 years old, began his naval career flying missions against the Japanese in WWII in the Western Pacific.

All the other members were high achievers as well. All had attained the grade of lieutenant commander or higher during their naval careers. Most have gone on to excel in post-military life as airline captains, top-level civil service executives and a host of other venerable careers. One member is still supporting the Navy, working on the V-22 Osprey program, after 59 years of combined Department of Defense service.

During the tour, the many differences between then and now were striking. Unlike today's fight against the global war on terror in improved P-3s, VP-742's primary focus was flying the P-2 Neptune during the cold war. They flew two-engine P2V-4 and P2V-5 aircraft during the 1950's, and P2V-5F and P2V-7 four-engine aircraft during the 1960's. They deployed to places like NS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, NS Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, NAS Port Lyautey, French Morocco and NAS Keflavik, Iceland, all of which are no longer frequented by P-3's. Over water navigation was conducted primarily by drift meter, celestial navigation, LORAN, and low frequency direction finder. These days, GPS and inertial navigation get are used.

Although the difference in politics, aircraft and technology seem worlds apart, there is a common theme that unites us in a brotherhood of maritime patrol aviators - mission. We discovered that despite all the advances in technology and policy in the past 60 years much remains unchanged for the maritime patroller. Today P-3s patrol vast expanses of water conducting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions for merchant vessels, ships and submarines just as our predecessors did against Japanese ship movements in the Pacific and German submarines in the Atlantic during WWII.

During the 1960's, the P-2s were involved in locating Russian ships during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Today, P-3s are conducting similar missions in oceans around the globe in support of the global war on terror and the war against drugs. On any given day a P-3 may be locating a large shipping vessel suspected of carrying illegal cargo, pirates causing havoc to shipping in the Middle East, or high speed drug boats near Central America.

Though the targets and technology have changed, the concepts remain the same. It's this common job we've all done that binds us together.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 Supports Academic Excellence In Local Area Schools - By Lt. Steve Bradfield - VP-30 PAO - Thursday March 16th, 2006 - Vol. 64 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [17MAR2006]

VP-30 has established strong bonds with the local community and schools by supporting annual events and giving monthly recognition to deserving students for their accomplishments.

When the Orange Park Rotary Club asked the "Pro's Nest" for volunteers to be judges for the 2006 Clay County Science and Engineering Fair, the response was a resounding "yes!" VP-30's Executive Officer Cmdr. Mark Creasey and 22 volunteers were on hand Feb. 13 at the Clay County Fairgrounds in Green Cove Springs, Fla. to participate in the fair. Many of the volunteers were student officersa waiting class-convening dates. Lt. Cmdr. Mike Harbison, VP-30's Student Control officer said, "The spirit of volunteerism is high among our people. Everyone returned with a great sense of pride after volunteering their time to this event."

The Science Fair was a huge success. VP-30's participation added a nice mix to the diversity of the judging panel as the judges represented various professions in Clay County.

VP-30 also reaches out to Wilkinson Elementary School, located in Clay Hill, in support of the Navy's Partnership for Excellence Program. Clay Hill is a rural portion of Clay County, west of Middleburg, Fla.

Every month, VP-30 recognizes one student who excels in academics and citizenship. This student, designated the "Little Pro of the Month", is escorted to VP-30 to receive a letter of appreciation and command memorabilia from the commanding officer during the squadron's quarters. The trip is capped off by a personal tour of the P-3 Orion. The January "Little Pro" was Clayton Blankenship of Clay Hill.

On Feb. 15, VP-30 recognized Wilkinson Elementary's Nancy Duffy, and her sixth grade class as the "Class of the Quarter". This recognition resulted in a class field trip to the squadron for a tour of the hangar and a P-3.

The Class of the Quarter students responded the very next day with a hand made greeting card thanking VP-30 for the "wicked cool tour." Duffy also thanked the staff for the hospitality and the classroom lesson on basic aircraft terminology and concepts of flight.

History - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge Thumbnail

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraTeachers and Administrators "...VP-30 Assists Navy Recruiting - By Lt. Stephen Bradfield - VP-30 Public Affairs Officer - Thursday March 2nd, 2006 - Vol. 64 - No. 9 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/ [05MAR2006]

Photograph Caption: Teachers and administrators from New England stand in front of the P-3 Orion in VP-30's hangar. They visited NAS Jacksonville, Florida as part of Navy Recruiting District Buffalo's recent educator orientation tour.

High school and college educators from various schools in New England visited VP-30 on NAS Jacksonville, Floridae recently.

The visit was part of Navy Recruiting Command's Educator Orientation Visit (EOV) Program.

Navy Recruiting District Buffalo, N.Y. coordinated the three-day tour of NAS Jacksonville, Florida area naval facilities.

The EOV program is used as a recruiting tool and also enhances civilian educator awareness of the professional training methods and educational opportunities available to young men and women in the Navy.

Participants get firsthand experiences of life in the Navy. Upon returning to their communities and schools, many become more equipped to discuss the topic of military service with their students.

The VP-30 orientation visit consisted of a briefing, which focused on P-3 officer and enlisted accession paths, the squadron's role in developing replacement crew members for the fleet, and the various maintenance and administrative job opportunities available within the Navy and P-3 community.

After the briefing the educators were given a tour of a static display of a P-3C Orion.

At the completion of the tour, Ensign Scott Hook, VP-30 assistant public affairs officer said, "This really feels good. We're not only supporting the P-3 community on a daily basis, but we're helping the Navy on a whole other level. As excited as [the educators] were when they left, you just know they're going to go back and be ambassadors for the Navy."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraSports and Standings "...Sports and Standings - JaxAirNews Thursday February 2, 2006. Squadrons Mentioned: VP-5, VP-16, VP-30, VP-45, VP-62, VS-22, and CPRW-11..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [09FEB2006]

There will be several softball meetings Feb. 15 in the Building 850 conference room. The season will begin in March. The following are the times of the meetings:

Greybeard – 11:30 a.m. – Open to active duty, selective reservists and command Department of Defense personnel age 30 and up.

Intramural – noon - Open to active duty, selective reservists and command Department of Defense personnel.

Women's league - 12:30 p.m. - Open to active duty, selective reservists, military dependents over 18 and Department of Defense employees.

Commands having their athletic officer or designated representative attend the meeting will receive five captain's cup points. All interested personnel should attend the meeting to discuss rules and to get the required paperwork to join the league.

Open softball meeting planned

An open softball meeting will be held Feb. 16 at 3 p.m. at Mulligans. This league is open to NAVAIR and Department of Defense employees, active duty, military dependents over 18 and selective reservists. Rules as well as days of the week and times for the games will be discussed at the meeting.

Racquetball tourney

An open racquetball tournament will be held Feb. 28 through March 3 each night at 5 p.m. at the NAS Jax Gymnasium. The tournament is free and is open to all NAS Jax authorized men and women. There is a competitive division and a recreational division. Awards will be given to the winners of each division. Call 542-3239 to sign up by Feb. 22.

Sports officials and scorekeepers needed

The North Florida Military Officials Association is looking for individuals to officiate soccer, softball, football and volleyball at NAS Jax. Scorekeepers are also needed for basketball. Experience is not required. If interested, contact Jesse Beach at 771-1333.

Navy Southeast Regional Running and Triathlon Team

Attention competition runners. Represent U.S. Navy in 5K, 10K, marathons and/or triathlons? The U.S. Navy will showcase elite active duty men and women in regional races. Uniforms are provided as well as transportation, entry fees, and lodging costs. Interested runners must compete in a sanctioned (USA Track and Field, USA Triathlon Association, or Roadrunners Clubs of America) race and your time must be one of top 10 regional qualifying times.

If you have run in a sanctioned race and your time meets the regional qualifying time, contact your base athletic director.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraAWCM(NAC/AW) Stephen Fishbein "...Fishbein retires from VP-30 By LT Steve Bradfield VP-30 PAO - JaxAirNews Thursday February 2, 2006..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [09FEB2006]

AWCM(NAC/AW) Stephen Fishbein of Levittown, N.Y., retired from the Navy Jan. 13 after nearly 30 years of service. Fishbein's retirement ceremony left standing room only in the VP-30 auditorium. In attendance were his family, friends and shipmates. During the event, Fishbein was commended by VP-30's commanding officer for his contribution and tremendous positive effect on all ranks of the Navy.

Fishbein enlisted in the Navy in July 1976. The highlights of his distinguished career include service on the SH-3D helicopter as an aviation antisubmarine warfare operator and search and rescue swimmer at HS-9. In 1984, he reported to VP-31 for fleet replacement training in the P-3B aircraft. Upon completion, he served with VP-17 in Hawaii.

He then reported to HS-1 for aircrew training on the SH-3H helicopter and a follow-on tour with the "Dusty Dogs" of HS-7. His next tour took him to the Naval Personnel Command in Millington, Tenn. as the senior aircrew detailer. His final assignment was with VP-30, where he has served since December 2001 as the training department leading chief petty officer.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraPhotograph courtesy of VP-30 "...VP-30 Chief Exchanges Anchors For Bars..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/jaxairnews/ss/jaxairnews/ [01FEB2006]

From VP-30

AWC Mark Anderson of VP-30 was commissioned an aviation operations chief warrant officer Dec. 30 in the VP-30 auditorium.

Anderson enlisted in the Navy in 1985 after graduating from Grand Forks Central High School, Grand Forks, N.D. in 1982. Most recently, Anderson served at VP-30 as a non-acoustic warfare aircrew instructor for one year. His previous commands include: Commander Task Force-67 NAF Naples, Italy, Tactical Support Center NAF Kadena, Okinawa, Japan, USS Independence (CV 62), USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), VP-31 at NAS Moffett Field, California and VP-22 at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii.

Anderson's preparation for commissioning includes 20 years of enlisted service and the pursuit of higher education through the University of Phoenix distance-learning program.

Anderson has accepted orders to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. Fifth Fleet, Bahrain as the maintenance department head. He will first complete five weeks of preparation at the Officer Training Command in NAS Pensacola, Florida.

Anderson's advice to fellow Sailors aspiring to achieve similar levels of success, "stay the course and seek out the difficult jobs/billets in the commands and also produce while you're in those billets."


Circa 2005

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 "...VP-30 recognizes Class of the Quarter - By Ensign Scott Hook - VP-30 - Thursday, November 24, 2005..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=16396 [29NOV2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Graduates Weapons and Tactics Instructors - By LT Kimo Silcox - VP-30 PAO - Thursday, November 17, 2005..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=16250 [19NOV2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...VP-30 Dominates Intramural Volleyball - By Bill Bonser - Sports Coordinator - Thursday, October 27, 2005..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=15815 [28OCT2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History "...The CDR Theodore G. Ellyson Production Excellence Award...CAPT Rich Heimerie CO-VP-30 and others from VP-30 were CDR Mark Creasy XO, LCDR Jason Jorgensen, Training Officer, and AWCM Steve Fishbein, also of the Training Department - ANA - Wings OF Gold - Summer 2005 - Page 36..." WebSite: Association Of Naval Aviation http://www.anahq.org/about/index.htm [20OCT2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 Conducts Training "...Thursday, September 22, 2005 - VP-30 conducts training at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington - By Lt. Kimo Silcox, VP-30 PAO..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/092205/mil_vp30001.shtml [22SEP2005]

Photo Caption: A P-3 from VP-30 conducts training at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. The squadron evacuated there in preparation of Hurricane Ophelia which enabled them to continue their training mission -- Photo by Lt. Kimo Silcox

In anticipation of Hurricane Ophelia's landfall on the First Coast, VP-30 staged a preemptive evacuation of three aircraft to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington Sept. 8. Loaded with instructors, students, and maintenance personnel, the detachment made the seven-hour transit not only to escape the impending weather, but to also take advantage of training opportunities.

Even with the hurricane off the coast, VP-30 would have lost valuable training opportunities as most of the Southeastern United States was obscured by low clouds, rain and blustery conditions. Washington State greeted the squadron members with light winds, sunny skies, and cool temperatures. Ideal weather for pilot training gave VP-30 the opportunity to complete 22 events that would have otherwise been cancelled.

"The detachment was a great success" said Lt. Cmdr. Scott Wathen, VP-30 operations officer. "We couldn't have done it without the hard work and dedication of our maintenance team. Their tireless effort was a direct contributor to the squadron's training achievements. In addition to the great maintenance support, VP-1 was a great host."

In addition to flight training, several of VP-30's students, who have orders to NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, capitalized on the opportunity to search for a house and explore the area. Lt. j.g. Bjorn Anderson stated, "I now have a much clearer picture of what the housing market is like." Another student, Lt. Mike Turner, took the opportunity to take pictures of his new house to share with family members and friends.

With Hurricane Ophelia no longer posing a threat to the region, VP-30 can look back on the hurricane evacuation as not only a great opportunity to train, but also a dress rehearsal for the next storm on the horizon.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 Mishap-Free for 40 Years and 400,000 Flight Hours - by Lt Joe Levy, VP-30 PAO..." WebSite: Naval Safety Center http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/media/approach/spotlight/VP-30.htm [08SEP2005]

On Thursday 29 July 2004, Patrol Squadron Thirty surpassed 400,000 hours of mishap free flying. This significant accomplishment began 40 years ago during the Presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson and continued under the leadership of 30 commanding officers. This milestone is even more remarkable when contrasted with the Navy's historical Class A mishap rate of approximately 1.5 mishaps per 100,000 flight hours. A Class A mishap is defined as an accident resulting in a loss of life or damage in excess of $1 million.

LT Greg Guidry, VP-30's Student Control Officer, served as the Patrol Plane Commander for the four hour flight. The flight was conducted onboard LL-51, a P-3C that has been upgraded with the Aircraft Improvement Program (AIP), which gives the P-3C a vastly improved sensor suite which has recently proved indispensable to combatant commanders in Operations IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM. The crew conducted a tactical training mission off the coast of Jacksonville. LT Todd Holbeck administered an initial Navigator NATOPS checkride for ENS Alexandre Barrows during the flight.

VP-30 also used the flight to honor sailors for superior performance. AM1 Kiddo Green and AW1 Gilberto Bermudez, both CPO selectees, served as Flight Engineer and Observer Instructor, respectively, for the mission. Seven other CPO selectees went flying as passengers. AW1 Darin Kosty, AW1 Michael Johnson, AE1 Keir Walls, AM1 William Hawes, AM1 William Mosely, AD1Rohan Campbell, and AT1 Mark Tapley all took to the skies on the hot Jacksonville morning. Squadron leadership also chose AE3 Theresa Murray, AO3 Stuart Venable, AD3 Donte Williams and AE3 Benjamin Clark to fly as passengers in recognition of their outstanding performance in their individual workcenters.

In a brief noon-time ceremony after the aircraft was parked in front of Hangar 30, Mr. Jim Parolise of Lockheed Martin congratulated the Pro's on a job well done. "That's a lot of hours!" said Parolise, underscoring the sheer magnitude of the accomplishment. Parolise also told the large gathering of Pro's that the milestone represented "sustained command excellence and commitment to safety of commanding officers and aircrews."

CAPT Richard Heimerle, VP-30's Commanding Officer accepted the award for the squadron. "I accept this award on behalf of all those who have gone before us," the skipper said. "I hope we can pass this legacy of safety on to those who come after us." CAPT Heimerle further put the accomplishment into perspective by relating that the nature of military flying dictates that safety cannot always be the deciding factor in the mission. Instead, CAPT Heimerle emphasized his safety philosophy, "Mission first, safety always."

VP History ThumbnailCameraPhoto 1    VP History ThumbnailCameraPhoto 2

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Brewer to take command of VP-30 - By Lt. Kimo Silcox, VP-30 PAO - Originally created Thursday, August 25, 2005..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/082505/mil_vp30001.shtml [27AUG2005]

VP History ThumbnailCameraCapt. Tim Brewer Capt. Tim Brewer will relieve Capt. Richard Heimerle as VP-30 commanding officer in a change of command ceremony tomorrow at 11 a.m. in Hangar 30 at NAS Jacksonville, Florida.

Brewer is a native of Hickory, N.C. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, earning a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering in 1982. He was designated a naval aviator in 1984.

Operationally, Brewer served in VP-19 at NAS Moffett Field, California, conducting deployments to Japan, Diego Garcia, and Saudi Arabia. He served as the flag secretary to COMUSNAVCENT home ported in Manama, NSA Bahrain during Operation Desert Storm. Brewer completed his VP department head tour at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, in VP-17, where he was the detachment officer in charge in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. After VP-17 decommissioned in 1994, Brewer served as the operation's department head with VP-9 which included a NAF Misawa, Japan deployment.

After being selecting for command, Brewer served as executive officer, and subsequently commanding officer of VP-9 from 1999-2001 in MCAS/NAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. During his tour, VP-9 won the Battle Efficiency Award. Following his command tour, Brewer served as assistant chief of staff to Commander, Maritime Surveillance and Reconnaissance Force, Europe in NAF Naples, Italy during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

VP History ThumbnailCameraCapt. Richard Heimerle Heimerle assumed duties as commanding officer of VP-30 in August 2003. As commanding officer, he led the largest squadron in naval aviation, surpassing 410,000 flight-hours and 41 years of mishap free flying. Along with this accomplishment, his leadership led to the development of the Fleet Standardization Group, Advanced Readiness Program, an 82 percent retention rate, 47 percent advancement rate, and a 40 percent reduction in aircrew attrition. Additionally, VP-30 was awarded the Theodore G. Ellyson Aviation Production Excellence Award for the first time its history. In his next assignment, Heimerle will be a member of the Strategic Studies Group in Newport, R.I.

VP-30, the "Pro's Nest," is the U.S. Navy's maritime patrol and reconnaissance FR). VP-30's mission is to provide P-3 specific training for aviators, naval flight officers and enlisted aircrew prior to their reporting to the fleet. More than 750 staff personnel directly or indirectly train over 700 officer and enlisted personnel annually, utilizing 10 P-3 aircraft of various models. VP-30 also provides specific aircrew and maintenance training for foreign military personnel from Germany, Chile, Pakistan, Argentina, Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Thailand.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Navy Marine Corps News - 8/13/2005 - Patrol Squadron 30 Is The Navy's Largest Aviation Squadron...VIDEO..." WebSite: Navy News http://www.news.navy.mil/management/videodb/player/video.aspx?id=5343 [14AUG2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Navy Marine Corps News - Aug 13, 2005 - Active/Reserve Integration - VP-26, VP-30 and VP-92...VIDEO..." WebSite: Navy News http://www.news.navy.mil/management/videodb/player/video.aspx?ID=5344 [14AUG2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCameraHomes Visits "...Rear Adm. Michael Holmes, Commander, Patrol Reconnaissance Group, visits members of Commander Patrol Reconnaissance Wing Eleven (CPRW-11) and VP-30 during his brief stop at NAS Jacksonville, Florida August 4. From left, Capt. Dennis Sinnett, CPRW-11, Holmes and VP-30 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Richard Heimerle. During his visit, Holmes addressed the members of CPRW-11 and VP-30 on the future of the maritime patrol and reconnaissance community..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=14408 [11AUG2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCameraOfficers Promoted "...Lt. Cmdrs. Mark Bunn and Steve Balka take the Oath of Office during their promotion ceremony on Aug. at VP-30..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=14408 [11AUG2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCamera050725-N-1126D-009 Jacksonville, Fla. (July 25, 2005) "...Students assigned to the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30), participate in daily mandated personal fitness training on board Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla. VP-30 is the U.S. Navy's Maritime Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron. Their mission is to provide aircraft-specific training for pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and enlisted Aircrew men prior to reporting to the fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Clarck Desire (RELEASED)..." WebSite: Navy Newsstand http://www.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=26548 [07AUG2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...By AWC Mike Walter - VP-30..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=13721&art=96894&tb=245786 [25JUN2005]

The chief petty officers (CPO) of VP-30 held a dining in June 10 at the NAS Jax Officers' Club. The guest of honor ws CMDCM Anthony Ford of Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group.

More then 50 chiefs attended as well as VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Richard Heimerle and Executive Officer Cmdr. Mark Creasey.

The President of the Pros' Nest Chief Petty Officer's Mess, CMDCM Gary Dryer, started planning to hold the special night last winter as a way of bring the CPO Mess together.

AWCM Steve Fishbein was selected to act as Mr. Vice. The dining in committee was chaired by ADC Tom Lovelace and included AMC J. T. Mills, AWC Mike Walter and AEC Josh Leach. Color Guard duties were performed by AEC Ken Mathis, YNC Scott Jenkins, PRC Mike Johnson and AMEC Phil Hudson.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...By LT Kimo Silcox - VP-30 PAO..." WebSite: JaxAirNews http://pub.jaxairnews.com/Sections.aspx?sec=13721&art=96791&tb=245531 [25JUJN2005]

June 2 was a momentous day for VP-30, as Commanding Officer Capt. Richard Heimerle and his squadron wre awarded the Association of Naval Aviations coveted Cmdr. Theodore G. Ellyson Aviator Production Excellence Award for fiscal year 2004.

According to the citation, "The squadron was chosen due to their ability to demonstrate the greatest production efficiency in training the fleet requirement for pilots, naval flight officers and aircrewmen within the Chief of Naval Operations' approved sylabus time."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: Association Of Naval Aviaiton "...Naval Air's Fleet Replacement Squadrons - VP-30 - NAS Jacksonville, Florida - Wings Of Gold - Winter 2004/05 Magazine - Page 6 through 9..." WebSite: Association of Naval Aviation http://www.anahq.org/ [14APR2005]

History - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge ThumbnailHistory - Tap To Enlarge Thumbnail

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Local news anchor visits VP-30 By Lt. Joe Levy, VP-30 PAO - Originally created Thursday, March 3, 2005..." JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/033105/mil_vp16001.shtml [04APR2005]

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History Cameraman Paul King records VP-30 Commanding Officer Capt. Rich Heimerle presenting Jeannie Blaylock with a squadron photo commemorating her visit to VP-30 and thanking her for her service to the Wetmore family. Photos by ATAN Tiffany Goodell

The maritime patrol and reconnaissance community has made a lot of headlines of late with the success that the P-3C and EP-3E aircraft have had in providing critical intelligence to commanders in Iraq and Afghanistan.

On Feb. 24, VP-30 took a unique opportunity to thank a member of the local news media, but not for her coverage of P-3C's.

By now, many are familiar with the story of Juliana Wetmore, daughter of AO1 Tom Wetmore, a VP-30 instructor flight engineer (FE). Juliana was born missing nearly 40 percent of the bones in her face due to a birth defect called Treacher Collins Syndrome. Gil Wood, a retired P-3C FE and current FE instructor with the Cubic Company at NAS Jax, helped the Wetmore's by flying them to Miami on occasion in his personal plane for Juliana's treatments. She has had over 14 surgeries. Wood emailed First Coast News anchor Jeannie Blaylock, who is known for composing stories emphasizing good things happening from tragedy. Within two months, Blaylock replied and ran Juliana's story on First Coast News.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History AO1 Tom Wetmore makes a few midflight adjustments as Lt. Joseph Levy looks to bank left during a special orientation flight for the First Coast News Team Feb. 24 aboard a one of VP-30's P-3 Orions. Photos by ATAN Tiffany Goodell

The story has since spread all over the world. It has made the cover of the Navy Times and has been translated by the Spanish network Telemundo. News crews from South Korea, England, and Japan have come to Jacksonville to do stories, highlighting the tremendous universal interest in how the Wetmore's have handled their daughter's condition.

In South Korea, where children with deformities are often fearfully held indoors by their parents, Juliana's story could potentially positively influence cultural bias in that country.

Of equal importance, the positive media exposure generated by Blaylock's story continues to snowball and has helped the Wetmore's offset the financial burden created by Juliana's condition. While the Navy pays for her medical care, air and ground transportation, food and lodging are not covered for the trips to Children's Hospital in Miami.

As an indication of just how inspiring the story has become in the Jacksonville area, viewers of First Coast News voted Juliana's story as the number one news story of the year for the First Coast, even after a year of unprecedented hurricanes and election frenzy.

History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History First Coast News reporter Jeannie Blaylock and Cameraman Paul King get a few hugs and kisses from friend, Julianna Wetmore at VP-30 Feb. 24. Photos by ATAN Tiffany Goodell

As a way of saying thanks to Blaylock for her efforts in helping a VP-30 Sailor and his family, Capt. Rich Heimerle, the squadron's commanding officer, invited Blaylock to fly on an orientation flight on one of VP-30's P-3C's. Accompanied by her cameraman, Paul King, Blaylock took to the skies at 11 a.m. last Thursday in LL-290 to view the latest Aircraft Improve-ment Program (AIP) technology in action. "We all hear so much about the infrared camera and the great capabilities that our military aircraft have," said Blaylock. "It's great to see all of this first hand."

AW1 Jeremy Auler operated the electro-optic equipment, focusing on various landmarks such as Alltel Stadium and the First Coast News building downtown. Wetmore served as the FE for the flight, and Gil Wood also flew along with the crew.

Lts. Mark Burns and Joe Levy piloted the aircraft north along the St. Johns River past The Jacksonville Landing and the First Coast News building near Alltel Stadium and continued out to Mayport and Amelia Island, before flying back down the river for a landing at NAS Jax one hour later.

At the end of the flight, the aircraft was greeted by Tami Wetmore (Tom's wife) and daughters, Kendra, and Juliana. The chief's mess from Mayport made a $1,000 donation to the Juliana Fund. Heimerle thanked Jeannie Blaylock again in front of the gathered squadron members and presented her with mementos of her visit.

Blaylock and King also took the opportunity to compose a news story highlighting the flight and Juliana's visit to her father's workplace, which will air on First Coast News in the near future. More information on Juliana's story can be found by clicking on the link to "Juliana's Story" at www.firstcoastnews.com.


Circa 2004

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 is mishap-free for 40 years, 400,000 flight hours - By Lt. Joe Levy - VP-30 PAO - Wednesday, August 4, 2004..." JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/080504/mil_vp30001.shtml [07APR2005]

 History ThumbnailCameraPhoto courtesy of VP-30 Capt. Richard Heimerle, VP-30 commanding officer and Jim Parolise, representative from Lockheed Martin, hold a plaque presented to the squadron signifying the squadron's 40-year, 400,000 mishap-free flight as members of the flight crew look on.

On July 29, VP-30 surpassed 400,000 hours of mishap-free flying. This significant accomplishment began 40 years ago during the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson and continued under the leadership of 30 commanding officers.

This milestone is even more remarkable when contrasted with the Navy's historical Class "A" mishap rate of approximately 1.5 mis-haps per 100,000 flight hours. A Class "A" mishap is defined as an accident re-sulting in a loss of life or damage in excess of $1 million.

Lt. Greg Guidry, VP-30's student control officer, served as the patrol plane commander for the four-hour flight.

The flight was conducted on board LL-51, a P-3C that has been upgraded with the Aircraft Improve-ment Program, which gives the P-3C a vastly improved sensor suite, which has recently proved indispensable to combatant commanders in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

 History ThumbnailCameraPhoto courtesy of VP-30 Capt. Richard Heimerle, VP-30 commanding officer and Jim Parolise, representative from Lockheed Martin, hold a plaque presented to the squadron signifying the squadron's 40-year, 400,000 mishap-free flight as members of the flight crew look on.

The crew conducted a tactical training mission off the coast of Jacksonville. Lt. Todd Holbeck administered an initial navigator NATOPS check ride for Ensign Alexandre Barrows during the flight.

VP-30 also used the flight to honor Sailors for superior performance. AM1 Kiddo Green and AW1 Gilberto Bermudez, both CPO selectees, served as flight engineer and observer instructor, respectively, for the mission.

Seven other CPO select-ees went flying as passengers. AW1 Darrin Kosty, AW1 Michael Johnson, AE1 Keir Walls, AM1 William Hawes, AM1 William Mosley, AD1 Rohan Camp-bell, and AT1 Mark Tapley all took to the skies on the hot Jacksonville morning.

Squadron leadership also chose AE3 Teresa Murray, AO3 Stuart Venable, AD3 Donte Williams and AEAN Benjamin Clark to fly as passengers in recognition of their outstanding performance in their individual work centers.

In a brief noontime ceremony after the aircraft was parked in front of Hangar 30, Jim Parolise of Lockheed Martin congratulated the "Pro's" on a job well done.

"That's a lot of hours!" said Parolise, underscoring the sheer magnitude of the accomplishment. Parolise also told the large gathering of Pro's that the milestone represented "sustained command excellence and commitment to safety of commanding officers and aircrews."

Capt. Richard Heimerle, VP-30's commanding officer, accepted the award for the squadron. "I accept this award on behalf of all those who have gone before us," the skipper said. "I hope we can pass this legacy of safety on to those who come after us."

Heimerle further put the accomplishment into perspective by relating that the nature of military flying dictates that safety cannot always be the deciding factor in the mission. Instead, Heimerle emphasized his safety philosophy, "Mission first, safety always."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY:  History ThumbnailCameraWTI Class 0105 "...VP-30 graduates 19 new weapons, tactics instructors - By Lt. Joe Levy, VP-30 PAO - Originally created Thursday, November 11, 2004..." JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/111104/mil_vp30001.shtml [05APR2005]

Picture: From left to right, front row, WTI Class 0105 class members Lt. Peter Avalos, VP-4; Lt. Brendan McGourthy, VP-5; AW1 Mark Pelchat, CPRW-2; Lt. Corey Brogna, CPRW-5; Lt. Stephanie Hartin, VP-40; Lt. Jason Gaudette, VP-4; Lt. Ronald Martin, VP-8; Lt. Gregory Francioch, CPRW-10; Lt. Jonathan Floyd, VP-40.ĘSecond row: Lt. Mark Brown, CPRW-11; Lt. Al Miller, VP-30; AW1 Horace May, CPRW-2; Lt. Dustin Hendrix, CPRW-11; Lt. Judd Conatser, VP-30; Lt. Michael Lewis, VP-47; Lt. Frank Johnson, VP-5; Lt. Jeffrey Hartsell, VP-45. Photo by PH2 (AW/NAC) Lynn Friant

Rear Adm. Michael Holmes, commander, Patrol and Recon-naissance Group presented the P-3 fleet's newest wea-pons and tactics instructors (WTI's) with graduation certificates last Friday in the VP-30 auditorium.

The class included five pilots, 12 naval flight officers and two aviation warfare specialists. Lts. Al Miller, Brett Thompson and Judd Conatser represented VP-30 in the class and will join the squadron's cadre of WTIs. "This is a team effort, emphasizing school house to fleet coordination to improve our warfighting skill set," said Cmdr. Brent Klavon, VP-30 executive officer.

This was the ninth Mar-itime Patrol and Reconnais-sance (MPR) WTI class and was the first to have the syllabus refocused toward fleet standardization and training. In their capacities as FRS instructors, Miller, Thompson and Conatser will play a key role in ensuring fleet P-3 squad-rons receive a higher level of standardized training.

The FRS WTIs will coordinate with the WTIs on the MPR Wing staffs to keep the fleet proficient and current on the latest P-3 tactics and weapons employment strategies, in support of operational plans. In order to accomplish this, they will emphasize creating qualified Advanced Readiness Program (ARP) instructors. WTI Class 0105, which graduated Friday, was instrumental in developing standardized ARP courseware for fleet-wide instruction.

This included a development of six and an implementation of three of the seven ARP Certification simulator scenarios, improving and modernizing the fleet-wide training and evaluation program.

"We don't have the airplanes, flight hours, or time we once had to prepare our combat aircrews for deployment," Holmes told the graduates at the ceremony attended by all of the MPR commodores. "The WTI program provides a concentrated effort that delivers the efficiency we need. You all are the experts."

The 19 graduates, representing squadrons and wings from Brunswick; Maine; Jacksonville; Kan-eohe Bay, Hawaii; and Whidbey Island, Wash., received approximately 90 hours of instruction over six weeks.

Topics of instruction included an instructor training course, anti-surface warfare weapons/ mission planning, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) standardization, ARP syllabus teaching and scenario development, extended echo ranging ASW, SLAM-ER and counter-threat training.

The Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (NSAWC) also taught a strike course during the two-week portion of the course in Fallon, Nev. All pilots received one counter-threat training flight.

In addition, the new WTIs received joint air-to-surface weaponeering system training at NSAWC and are certified weaponeers. They also received an air combat training continuum level 5 designation.

AW1 Horace May and AW1 Mark Pelchat are the third and fourth P-3 AWs and 97th and 98th students overall to graduate the course and have evaluated the syllabus for the future AW WTI course.

"When I was flying P-2's in the 1960's, we didn't have this vision. I couldn't be prouder of where our enlisted training is headed," said AWCM(AW/NAC) Steve Fishbein.

The MPR WTI coordinators are Lt Ray Stromber-ger of NSAWC and Lt Casey Woods of VP-30.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Two sets of twins train at VP-30 - By Lt. Joe Levy, VP-30 PAO - Originally created Thursday, December 2, 2004..." JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/120204/mil_vp30001.shtml [05APR2005]

 History ThumbnailCameraAD2 Brandon and AD2 Steven Smith

As the Fleet Replace-ment Squadron for the Navy's P-3 and EP-3E aircraft, VP-30 trains America's future aircrewmen and women for duty in operational patrol and reconnaissance squad-rons. In this capacity, some of the most talented aircrewmen in the history of naval aviation have passed through the passageways of Hangar 30.

In an interesting twist, VP-30 currently has two sets of identical twins on board who are training to take their place in maritime patrol and reconnaissance aviation.

AD2 Steven Smith and AD2 Brandon Smith, 27, of Alamo, Texas and AW3 Branden Wakefield and AWAA Matthew Wakefield, 20, of Sacramento, Calif. have made their time at VP-30 a family affair.

Steven and Brandon Smith joined the Navy together immediately after high school and haven't been separated for more than six months during their careers. They attended boot camp and "A" school together and took orders to NAF Atsugi, Japan and then NAF Guam, together.

In April, Brandon suggested to Steven that they apply to become P-3 flight engineers. Eager to fly and try something different and "more hands-on," Steven agreed and the brothers arrived in Jacksonville in June. After consecutive overseas tours, the Smith twins are enjoying their time back in America.

Branden and Matthew Wakefield arrived at VP-30 fresh out of boot camp and "A" school in Pensacola, Fla. after graduating from Mesa Verde High School in Sacramento in 2003.

Branden graduated from VP-30's Acoustic Aviation Warfare Specialist course Nov. 15 and will soon transfer to VP-45. Matthew is in the non-acoustic syllabus and will take orders to a NAS Whidbey Island, Wash. based P-3 squadron after he graduates in January.

 History ThumbnailCameraAW3 Branden and AWAA Matthew Wakefield

Branden Wakefield recruited his brother Matt to join the Navy with him after high school. They have three other siblings, including another set of male identical twins. Both say that they want to "do something right for our country while being a good role model for our younger twin brothers."

"As an acoustic operator, I'm the first to gain contact on submarines that could potentially be headed toward one of our aircraft carriers," says Branden. "We always want to know where the subs are."

The twins keep their rigorous FRS training in perspective by having an understanding of the end goal. "I'm looking forward to being the number one radar operator on the plane, keeping the carriers safe from subs, keeping the aircraft safe from terrain, and using the P-3's electronic signal measuring equipment to gather intelligence," said Branden. "We know how old these planes are, but they are still our best defense against subs."

The Wakefields claim to have different personalities, but know what is going through each other's mind after being so close for so long. Both have enjoyed their time in Jacksonville, striking a balance between dedicating an abundance of time for studying and enjoying all that Northeast Florida has to offer.

Branden, who got married just after high school, is looking forward to going to college and enjoying a long Navy career. Matt, who has been able to take part in training flights to New Orleans, La. and Whidbey Island, Wash., will wait to deploy with an operational squadron before he makes up his mind. "I'm the smart one," he joked. Despite their impending separation when Matt goes to Whidbey Island, the twins seem to be ready to part ways for a while, focusing more on the opportunities that lie ahead.

After spending significant time in the fleet as aviation machinist mates, the Smith twins were looking forward to a new challenge. Both claim a certain pride from their past experiences fixing various naval aircraft. "I would fix it like I was going to be the one flying it," said Brandon, who is also the father of a new baby boy. "I remember the satisfaction I took from fixing an aircraft and then watching it go flying. I'm glad I was on the other side," he said. "My maintenance background has helped a lot while training to become a flight engineer."

Steven will be happy when the brothers graduate VP-30's engineer course and is looking forward to receiving his diploma next to his brother. "I like being part of a cause that is bigger than myself," he said.

Capt. Rich Heimerle, VP-30 commanding officer, believes this dual set of twins may be a first and commented that "while we are proud to instruct all future patrol and reconnaissance aircrew, it is a pleasure to see four of America's sons who are dedicated to their country and their family and we are happy to call them shipmates."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY:  History ThumbnailCamera040310-N-6901L-001 Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. (Mar. 10, 2004) "...A P-3C Orion takes-off at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island as two other P-3C Orion patrol aircraft are prepared for flight. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Michael Larson. (RELEAED)..." Navy News Stand http://newshome.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=12596 [04MAR2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCamera040626-N-0000C-001 Kinloss, Scotland (Jun. 26, 2004) "...A P-3C Orion from the "Pro's Nest" of Patrol Squadron Thirty (VP-30) based in Jacksonville, Fla., rests silhouetted on the parking apron at RAF Kinloss, Scotland, following an Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) mission over Joint Maritime Course (JMC) 042. VP-30 is deployed to the British airbase and participating in the multinational exercise with other NATO and European nations. U.S. Navy photo by Ens. Ronald Bradley Clove (RELEASED)..." Navy News Stand http://newshome.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=17221 [02MAR2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCamera040818-N-2559S-013 Jacksonville, Fla. (Aug. 18, 2004) "...Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30) navigator, Ensign Jeremy M. Hansler, checks the aircrafts position during a cross-country flight in a P-3C Orion. VP-30 provides fleet training for aircrews qualifying in the P-3 Orion airframe. Originally designed as a land-based, long-range, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) patrol aircraft, the P-3C's mission has evolved in the late 1990s and early 21st century to include surveillance of the battlespace, either at sea or over land. Its long range and long loiter time have proved invaluable assets during Operation Iraqi Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Alesha A. Stanaitis (RELEASED)..." Navy News Stand http://newshome.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=17137 [02MAR2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: VP History ThumbnailCamera040922-N-2559S-013 Jacksonville, Fla (Sept. 22, 2004) "...Aviation Electronics Technician Airman David J. Everly from Slidell, La., receives a final check on his parachute harness prior to a bailout drill by Lt. Andy Moye from El Paso, Texas, on board an P-3 Orion assigned to Patrol Squadron Three Zero (VP-30). U.S. Navy Photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Alesha A. Stanaitis (RELEASED)..." Navy News Stand http://www.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=17825 [02MAR2005]

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Scrooge Comes to NAS Jacksonville - Story Number: NNS041207-16 - Release Date: 12/7/2004 3:55:00 PM - By Journalist 1st Class Mike England, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs..." Navy Newstand http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=16043 [12DEC2004]

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The NAS Jacksonville, Florida Religious Ministries and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Departments sponsored an adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Scrooge, A Christmas Carol" at the base theater Dec. 4 and 5.

This live family theatrical performance was the brainchild of Lt. j.g. Jonathan Pohnel, a pilot with Patrol Squadron VP-30 and former professional actor. Pohnel's inspiration for the play came from his desire to see more family-oriented activities on base.

"I think our Navy is a lot like a family, and it's important that we spend time together," he said. "I wanted to offer Navy families something different to do on base despite the recent budget cuts that MWR has had to endure," he continued.

Pohnel not only played Scrooge in the theatrical production, he also adapted the Dickens novel into a musical for the stage and wrote five original songs.

"I wrote the play after the commanding officer of my flight school in Corpus Christi, Texas, asked me to come up with something for Christmas last year," he said. "After a successful performance there, I approached Father Lyle shortly after reporting to NAS Jacksonville, Florida about performing the play in December. He let me know that he was behind me all the way - however, there wasn't any money in the Chaplain's Department's budget for a play and that I would have to find funding on my own," Pohnel continued.

That's where the dozens of volunteers came in. Sailors, family members, and civilians of different pay grades and backgrounds came together to ensure that Scrooge made it to the stage. From Naval Dental Center Jacksonville Commanding Officer Cmdr. Rick Freedman volunteering to act in the play to Builder 1st Class Scott Bernard taking on the task of building the set and stage, all of the volunteers played a vital role in the performance.

"I was really impressed with efforts of all of our volunteers. This really was their play, and they all worked extremely hard to put this whole thing together," Pohnel said. "All of the actors and crew came through like professionals on opening night."

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Valhalla for 'Val' After Years of NASKEF Service..." Navy News Stand http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=11706 [02APR2004]

Valhalla for 'Val' After Years of NASKEF Service
Story Number: NNS040302-02
Release Date: 3/2/2004 9:30:00 AM
From Naval Air Station Keflavik Air Ops Public Affairs

NAVAL AIR STATION KEFLAVÍK, Iceland (NNS) -- For nearly 19 years, NAS Keflavik, Iceland's (NASKEF) UP-3A aircraft, Valkyrja, affectionately known as Val, served NASKEF's personnel. Jan. 26, Val was retired and flown to Davis-Mothan Air Force Base, where she was inducted into the aircraft "boneyard."

"The loss of Val not only marks the end of an era of NAS Keflavik, Iceland having a base aircraft, but more importantly, has impacted the base's ability to get personnel to professional conferences, symposiums and training seminars," said Lt. Cmdr. Joe Dickinson, NASKEF's air operations officer.

Her moniker, Valkyrja, is drawn from the Norse name for the "female chooser of the slain." The helmeted battle maidens would fly on supernatural horses over battlefields, determining the course and victors of war. The Valkyries' primary duty was to choose the bravest of the warriors slain on the battlefield, gathering their souls to escort them to Valhalla.

She was delivered to the Navy Aug. 29, 1962, making her much older than many of the personnel who currently fly and maintain her. During her faithful years of service in NAS Keflavik, Iceland, she has carried more than 22,000 personnel to more than 15 countries, while accumulating just over 10,000 mishap-free flight hours, including 5,675 landings. In total, Val has accumulated 20,108 mishap-free flight hours and flown more than 7 million miles--the equivalent of two years, three months, and 18 days in the air, 282 trips around the equator, or 14 trips to and from the moon. Prior to being stationed in NAS Keflavik, Iceland, she was assigned to VP-30, VP-8, VXN-8, VP-94, and Naval Aerological Support Center, Miami.

The 34 personnel in the Operations Maintenance Division, under the leadership of Lt. Mike Hersey, were responsible for the upkeep and "TLC" of the Navy's best-kept UP-3A, and they maintained an astonishing 89 percent "mission capable" rate. Although stationed in NAS Keflavik, Iceland, Val aircrews provided time-critical logistical support to Commander, Task Force 67 during Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF), Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and numerous task force exercises. Over a three-month period, Val flew 25 logistics missions in direct support of OEF/OIF and exercises Booming, Blue Game and Baltops. NAS Keflavik, Iceland aircrews flew more than 150 hours across six different countries, providing time-critical, intra-theater wartime transport throughout the Mediterranean and European areas of responsibility for more than 500 duty personnel and 50,000 lbs. of cargo.

"In addition to providing base support to professional functions throughout Europe and CONUS, Val provided a huge quality of life boost to the base service members and dependents as a space-available transportation opportunity," said Dickinson.

Val's last local flight was completed Jan. 22 with Capt. Mark Laughton, commanding officer of NAS Keflavik, Iceland, and Dickinson at the controls. The pilots, air crew and maintenance personnel will deeply miss Val, as will all who enjoyed the benefits of having a station aircraft.


Circa 2003

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...A Lack of Sleep Equals a Lack of Good Judgment - by AME2(AW) Mark Hedrick - Mech Summer 2003..." WebSite: Navy Safety Center http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/MEDIA/mech/issues/summer03/lackofsleep.htm [27JUN2006]

Keeping "your head in the game" is crucial to avoid tragic consequences. I had been stationed at VP-30 for about six months when I earned my CDI Qual. Everything ran smoothly for the next two months, but I guess I took things for granted.

We had been working on duty weekends, and everyone was being driven to get aircraft fixed in the best way they could. I always strive to do good maintenance, anyway and try to keep everyone up to date on my progress. I also go out of my way to give aircrew an answer-even if I'm in the middle of something else. This work philosophy works well, but it led me astray one time and almost got me a visit with the commanding officer.

It had been a long Saturday and Sunday of work. At 1800, I got in touch with my supervisor to see about coming in late for mid-check. He told me to come in around 0300, meaning I could get some rest, so I headed home.

Once there, I cleaned up, ate and got ready for bed. Before I could nod off, however, my son started to feel sick. My wife was recovering from a serious back injury and was asleep, so it was up to me to care for my 6-year-old son.

I stayed up with him until almost midnight and finally headed for bed. After three short hours of sleep, I dragged my carcass into work for the last half of mid-shift.

During that shift, our shop had to service our aircraft's oxygen systems before the morning flight schedule. When I returned to the shop, we had a few gripes to fix, so I sent my airman out to get started. I stayed in the shop to take care of any preflight gripes that might come up. Sure enough, I got a call about 10 minutes later for an oxygen gripe. I said, "No problem," and headed off to take a look.

On my way to the plane, a flight engineer from another aircraft asked if I'd take a look at his oxygen. I parked my tractor and went to take a look. I decided the system needed about a 100 psi for a top off and told the flight engineer that I'd take care of it. Without thinking, I grounded my oxygen cart, purged the servicing line, and hooked up to the aircraft. I put in about 100 psi and disconnected from the plane.

After wrapping that job, I jumped into the tractor to finish my first task. Before I could leave, another flight engineer stopped me and asked what I just had done. I told him about the 100 psi shot to top off the plane. He proceeded to chew my butt because I had serviced an aircraft while a power cart was hooked up to the plane. That was bad enough, but aircrew still was onboard doing a preflight.

I hadn't noticed the NC-10 on the other side of the plane until he had mentioned it. He then reminded me about an oxygen incident that had burned an aircraft to the ground. I admitted my mistake and knew my momentary lack of judgment deserved his reprimand.

I should have gone back to the hangar, grabbed a shipmate, and then returned to the plane. I should have made everyone get off the plane, except for my observer. We then would have made sure no power was on the plane and the battery had been disconnected.

My inattention could have caused a serious injury or death. I also learned to keep my eyes on my troops to make sure they are not too tired to do a job-like I was.

Petty Officer Hedrick works in the AME shop at VP-30.

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY:  History ThumbnailCamera030717-N-9693M-003 Vandalia, Ohio (Jul. 17, 2003) "...A P-3 Orion assigned to the "Pros Nest" of Patrol Squadron Thirty (VP-30) fly with bomb-bay doors open, during the annual U.S. Air and Trade Show at Dayton International Airport. The U.S. Air and Trade Show participated in the celebration of 100 years of flight. VP-30 is the U.S. Navy's Patrol Fleet Replacement Squadron. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Damon J. Moritz. (RELEASED)..." Navy News Stand http://newshome.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=8662 [05MAR2005]


Circa 2002

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...VP-30 pilot rich in heritage and history - By JO2 (SW) Cliff Williams - CNRSE Public Affairs - Thursday, April 25, 2002..." JaxAirNews http://www.jaxairnews.com/stories/042502/mil_pilot001.shtml [06APR2005]

 History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History An early photo of the H5 submarine before its tragic sinking March 2, 1918.

It was March 2, 1918. The "Great War" in Europe was near its end, and people were weary from battle, but Germany, Great Britain and France re-mained determined to win.It was on this date that the war claimed its first American submariner.

Lt. Earl Weeks Child and his 26 Shipmates were lost at sea near Caernarfon Bay, Wales when a British cargo ship, the SS Rutherglen, mistakenly believed the H5 submarine was a German U-boat.

The crew of the Rutherglen rammed the H5 repeatedly until she sank, even receiving a bounty for destroying what they believed to be an enemy submarine.

The truth about the sinking emerged years later, and the crew was finally honored. On March 2, 2002, 84 years after the accident, Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron VP-30 pilot Lt. Kyle Mathews, Child's great grandson, along with other relatives, attended a ceremony marking the anniversary of the sinking at sea near the wreckage site and at a local Parish in Holyhead, Wales.

Despite the incident so long ago, Mathews and his entire family have kept the Navy-Marine Corps tradition in their blood. "My father was enlisted in the Marines before college and then became a Naval Reserve Officer, retiring as a Captain," explained Mathews, a Columbia, Md. Native and 1992 U.S. Naval Academy graduate. "My grandfather was an A-4 pilot, my father's stepfather flew F4U-4 Corsairs, my mother's father was a Naval Academy graduate of 1940 and my mother's grandfather was an academy graduate in 1917."

 History ThumbnailCameraVP-30 History VP-30 Pilot Lt. Kyle Matthews (second from right) with other relatives and guests at the recent memorial ceremony for the H5 submarine which was sunk off the coast of Wales March 2, 1918. Matthews is the great grandson of Lt. Earl Weeks Child, the first American submariner killed in World War I. Photo courtesy of VP-30

With all the pilots in Mathews' family, it is all come in full circle, interlinking the entire heritage his family is so rich in. "The aircraft that I fly is the P-3 Orion, which is primarily and anti-submarine platform," said Mathews. When asked about his great grandfather serving as a submariner, Mathews said, "My great grandfather's time period was in its infancy; a new frontier. He passionately wanted to be a part of the new generation of Naval Warfare."

Even with a rich military heritage running through the family, Mathews felt no pressure to join the armed forces or to push his children in the military direction either. "I had access to a great knowledge base of military life, but I was free to choose what I wanted to do in my life," said Mathews. "My five-year-old son and two-year-old daughter will come to know that I have no expectations of them to join the military service. Whatever decision they choose, I will support them."

World War I was the great-armed conflict of 1914-1918. It was often called the Great War because until that time, it was the most destructive and widespread war the world had ever seen.

More on the U.S. Navy's involvement in World War I is available online at http://www.history.navy.mil/wars/index.html.


Circa 2001

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: History ThumbnailCamera "...September 11th, 2001 MPR Heroes Memorial Dedication..." WebSite: VP-30 Official https://www.cnet.navy.mil/vp30home/index.htm [03MAR2008]

On March 21st, Patrol Squadron Thirty (VP-30) unveiled the September 11th MPR Heroes Memorial in honor of the six service members from the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance community who lost their lives during the September 11th terrorist attack at the Pentagon. The six heroes were CAPT Lawrence D. Getzfred, CAPT Jack D. Punches (Ret), CDR William H. Donovan, LT Michael Scott Lamana, LT Jonas M. Panik, and AW1 Joseph J. Pycior Jr.

Following the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance, CDR John W. Lyle, NAS Jacksonville Command Chaplain, gave the Invocation. CAPT Brian Prindle, Commanding Officer of VP-30, followed and introduced the guest speaker, Rear Admiral Richard E. Brooks, Commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Force U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Following Rear Admiral Brooks' comments were speakers for each of the victims. CDR Brent Sperry, Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron 16, spoke on behalf of his former shipmate, AW1 Pycior. Mr. Martin Panik spoke for his son, LT Panik. LT Tim Esh spoke for his friend, LT Lamana. Captain Prindle spoke for his friend, CDR Donovan. Ms. Jennifer Punches spoke on behalf of her father, CAPT Punches, and Mrs. Patricia Gross-Getzfred spoke on behalf of her husband, CAPT Getzfred. RADM Anthony Winns, Commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Force U.S. Pacific Fleet then spoke on CAPT Getfred's legacy to Naval Aviation.

Also featured in the presentation ceremony were the Pro's Nest Singers who sang the National Anthem, America the Beautiful, and God Bless America. After the last of the remarks, the families joined LCDR Brett Bormann and LT(jg) Harold Cully in formally presenting the black granite memorial and accompanying portrait which will be on permanent display at the VP-30 quarterdeck. Following the dedication ceremony the guests were invited to a static display of a P-3C Orion in the VP-30 Hanger and to a reception at the NAS Jacksonville Officer's Club.

Pictures of the September 11th MPR Heroes Memorial and Dedication Ceremony.

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HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Naval officer ends 24-year career - Thursday, April 5, 2001..." WebSite: DC Military - Tester http://www.dcmilitary.com/dcmilitary_archives/stories/040501/6247-1.shtml [16OCT2006]

On March 23, the commander of the Naval Air Systems Command and the Program Executive Officer for Strike Weapons and Unmanned Aviation bid farewell to Capt. Richard M. Prevatt III. Prevatt culminated his U.S. Navy career of over 24 years as he passed the lead of Naval Afloat Targeting and Cruise Missiles Command and Control Programs (PMA-281) to Capt. Michael A. Hecker.

PMA-281 is chartered to develop, acquire, deploy and support Naval Afloat Targeting systems and Cruise Missile Command and Control Systems for the nation's warriors. Its roots date back to 1977 when the Joint Cruise Missiles Program Office was created. PMA-281 was formed in 1986 to provide mission planning capabilities for Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles. Since that time, the command has evolved to support a wide variety of Navy weapons, provide imagery processing and exploitation systems, precision targeting systems, as well provide innovative approaches to conducting maritime power projection.

In September 1997, Prevatt assumed command as program manager (PMA-281) for the nine major systems providing Command and Control, Imagery Processing, Precision Targeting and Mission Planning essential to fleet Tomahawk and Joint Precision Weapons. His team received multiple commendations for operational Tomahawk support during Operations Desert Fox and Allied Force/Noble Anvil and numerous Secretary of the Navy awards for Acquisition Innovation and Reform.

Born in Stuttgart, West Germany, into a military family, he earned his bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering and computer science, Summa Cum Laude, from Duke University in 1977. After commissioning in May, he reported to Pensacola, Fla., for naval flight training in June 1977, and graduated with distinction.

Prevatt completed P-3 replacement pilot training at VP-30, NAS Jacksonville, Florida in 1979, then reported to his first operational assignment with the "Pegasus" of VP-11, there completing two LANT deployments. After jet transition at Kingsville, Texas, in 1982, he graduated with Class 84 of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in December 1983. He joined Force Warfare Aircraft Test Directorate at Naval Air Test Center NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to direct P-3 engine performance monitoring, defensive electronic countermeasures, and survivability and vulnerability developmental test. He then returned to TPS as an instructor. In 1986, he joined the "Wizards" of Patrol Squadron Special Projects Unit 2 where he directed multiple WESTPAC deployments.

Prevatt earned his master's degree with distinction in computer science from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., in December 1990. After graduation, he completed the program manager's course at the Defense Systems Management College, then began his association with Tomahawk as director of Test and Evaluation for Program Executive Officer, Cruise Missile Project during both Desert Watch and Desert Storm and the accelerated fleet introduction of Block III. In April 1994, he was selected to be deputy program manager for Combat Identification and then for Integrated Defensive Electronic Countermeasures for Program Executive Officer, Tactical Aircraft Programs (PEO(T)). In May 1997, he joined PEO(T) as operations officer and chief of staff. His service has included over 3,400 flight hours as a pilot in 41 types of Navy, Air Force, Army and Allied aircraft.

Prevatt is married to the former Tina Ashley of Jackson, Ohio. They live in Great Mills with their three children Matthew, Michael and Andrea.

Copyright © 2006 Comprint Military Publications - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.


Circa 2000

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "...Destroyer Squadron TWO FOUR - December of 2000 - VP-5, VP-16 and VP-30..." WebSite: Destroyer Squadron TWO FOUR http://www.cnsl.spear.navy.mil/cds24/history.htm [26OCT2005]

December of 2000 brought the first groupsail for the new Inter-Deployment Training Cycle. An SSBN provided services for COMDESRON TWO FOUR which allowed us to refresh our ASW skills. Additional ASW support was provided by VP-5, VP-16, VP-30, and HSL-48. ATG Mayport also assisted while we honed our SUW and AAW skills off the coast of Florida.

Circa 1997

HistoryA BIT OF HISTORY: "01OCT97--...NNS4111. Naval Reserve squadron wins aviation competition by LT John Perry, VP-66 WILLOW GROVE, PA. (NWSA) -- Combat Aircrew One (CAC- 1) of Naval Reserve Patrol Squadron 66 (VP-66), based at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, won first place in the 1997 International Maritime Patrol Aviation (MPA) Symposium held Sept. 12 in Jacksonville, Fla. The squadron competed against MPA crews from France, Canada, Spain, Germany, Italy, United Kingdom, as well as against five active duty U.S. Navy crews. Commander Patrol Wing 11 hosted the third annual antisubmarine warfare symposium. U.S. East and West Coast Wings were represented by crews from NAS Brunswick, Maine; NAS Jacksonville, Florida; NAS Whidbey Island, Washington; and NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii, as well as the MPA Fleet Replacement Squadron, Patrol Squadron 30. Naval Reserve Squadron VP-62's maintenance department, from NAS Brunswick, Maine shared in the victory by helping VP-66 prepare and maintain the aircraft for the competition..." Navy News Service -- 1 Oct. 1997


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