The Life of an Aviation Boatswain's Mate

T H E WOLVERINEfebruary 2020 TOUCHDOWN ABOARD FORD! FORD KICKS OFF AIRCRAFT COMPATIBILITY TESTING SHORE VS. SEA: THE CHALLENGE OF LANDING AIRCRAFT AT SEA

BLUE TO YELLOW THE LIFE OF AN AVIATION BOATSWAIN’S MATE THIS MONTH IN NAVAL HISTORY

THE WOLVERINE February 1, 1942 USS GERALD R. FORD (CVN 78) USS Enterprise (CV 6) and USS Yorktown (CV 5) make the first World War II air strike against the Japanese at their outposts in the Marshall Islands.

MEET THE TRIAD February 12, 1950 COMMANDING OFFICER U.S. Sixth Fleet is established. CAPT John J. Cummings EXECUTIVE OFFICER February 22, 1974 CAPT Tim Waits L.t. j.g. Barbara Ann (Allen) Rainey becomes the first Navy designated female aviator. COMMAND MASTER CHIEF CMDCM De’Andre Beaufort February 22, 1974 The first ship named for an enlisted man, USS Osmond Ingram (DD 255) is launched. MEDIA DEPARTMENT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER LCDR Anthony Falvo LCDR Desiree Frame

ASSISTANT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER LTJG Nicholas Spaleny COMMAND OMBUDSMAN

MEDIA DEPARTMENT PRODUCTION LCPO MCC RJ Stratchko THE WOLVERINE EDITOR MCSN Angel Thuy Jaskuloski MEDIA DEPARTMENT STAFF MC1 Jonathan Pankau MC1 Gary Prill MC1 Jeff Troutman MC2 Sean Elliot MC2 Matthew Rice Danni Campbell Brittany Curry MC2 Ruben Reed 757-805-5958 757-708-5581 MC2 Ryan Seelbach MC2 Cat Yanez [email protected] [email protected] MC3 Marissa Vermeulen MC3 Ryan Carter MC3 Connor Loessin MC3 Zachary Melvin MC3 Joshua Murray MC3 Brett Walker MCSN Zachary Guth MCSN Dalton Lowing FOR MORE CONTENT MCSA Riley McDowell Want to see more about USS Gerald R. Ford? Visit us at: FRONT COVER PHOTO https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN78 An EA-18G Growler, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, approaches @cvn78_grford USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication @Warship_78 Specialist 3rd Class Ryan Carter) @USSGeraldRFord TABLE OF CONTENTS

5 FORD COMPLETES AIRCRAFT COMPATIBILITY TESTING

6 V-2 HEADS ADVANCED ARRESTING GEAR EFFORTS

9 LICENSE TO FORKLIFT

A LOOK INSIDE THE HOSPITAL 10 CORPSMAN COMMUNITY

12 PHOTOS OF THE MONTH

14 FORD UTILIZES VIRTUAL REALITY TO TRAIN

THE LIFE OF AN AVIATION 16 BOATSWAIN’S MATE

18 THE CHALLENGE OF LANDING AIRCRAFT AT SEA

21 THE “COOL” GUYS ON THE FLIGHT DECK

Secure From Flight Quarters: Ford Completes Aircraft Compatibility Testing By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary Melvin

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) went underway last boss. “Every day there is something new going on that month in an effort to complete launches and traps of is a first in this class. Here, today and every day, we are multiple models of aircraft for Aircraft Compatibility setting the standard for ourselves and the Ford class.” Testing (ACT). Ford did just that. Akacem credited the success of ACT to the efforts During the underway, Ford successfully completed of Ford’s Sailors, both past and present. 211 aircraft launches and recoveries, with its “We have taken the aspirations, the studies and electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) and the preparation,” he said. “Now we have the time to advanced arresting gear (AAG). actualize it and bring it to life.” “It was outstanding,” said Chief Aviation ACT helped train and prepare junior Sailors, many Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Carlos Segura, from who have no prior experience with an active flight Raton, New Mexico, assigned to Ford’s air department. deck. “It felt really good to be out at sea launching and “It means a lot for our junior Sailors who can now recovering aircraft. My Sailors on the flight deck had get more hands-on training,” said Aviation Boatswain’s great motivation and accomplished a great deal of Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Marc Trietch, from San training.” Antonio, assigned to Ford’s air department. “It lets us For four of the five aircraft, ACT was their first time complete our training and do our jobs.” ever being launched and recovered on a Ford-class Akacem praised the crew while also emphasizing aircraft carrier. the importance of these underways for the Ford. “We have had the first-ever T-45 Goshawk landing “We have been able to bring all the pieces on this ship, the first-ever EA-18G Growler, the first- together,” he said. “There is no simulator for an aircraft ever E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and the first-ever C-2A so it is very important that we get out here.” Greyhound,” said Cmdr. Mehdi Akacem, Ford’s air

An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, takes off from USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck.

Photo by MCSA Angel Thuy Jaskuloski It’s A Trap! V-2 Division Heads Ford’s AAG Efforts By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan Carter

The unmistakable guttural roar of a C-2A Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 1st Class John Greyhound, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Thompson, from Kerrville, Texas, assigned to Ford Squadron (VX) 20, resonates through the air as it banks air departments’ V-2 division, who understands how left and begins its approach for USS Gerald R. Ford’s his job and the Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) play (CVN 78) flight deck. a pivotal role in the ship’s ability to accomplish the As the seconds tick by, 57,000 pounds of mission. parcels, personnel and propellers barrel toward a black sea of non-skid. “... If we aren’t ready [to do The multi-colored flecks that littered the flight our job], then what is the ship deck have now taken the form of the Ford’s brave air department Sailors. ready for?” The pilot’s grip on the yoke tightens as the gap - ABE2 John Thompson between craft and carrier rapidly diminishes, and the only chance this aviator has to land this bird lies in the “All the systems on Ford are brand new, and our hands of the Warship78 V-2 division. main mission is to launch and recover aircraft,” said Often referred to as the primary mission division, Thompson. “So if we aren’t ready [to do our job], then V-2 Sailors are in charge of the Aircraft Launch & what is the ship ready for?” Recovery Equipment (ALRE), and although their jerseys Thompson also looks toward the bigger picture in may be green, when it comes to the ship’s ability how his system impacts the Navy’s mission globally. to conduct flight operations, this team is “The main task at hand is to make sure we can anything but. launch and recover aircraft so we can go support our Leading the troops wherever they need be,” said Thompson. “My charge is job as an ABE is to make sure that [when we recover Aviation them], those same aircraft land safely.” Thompson had the advantage of being aboard during Ford’s 2017 and 2018 fixed-wing flight operations to see the AAG work first-hand, but for Sailors like Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Louis Zanelotti, from Owings, Maryland, also assigned to Ford’s

Left: A T-45 Goshawk, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, prepares to land on USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. Photo by MC3 Zachary Melvin V-2 division, this was an entirely new experience. quick and it’s going to help us out in the long run.” “I had trust in the traditional recovery system. I’ve Sailors like Zanelotti continue looking to the future been underway on another ship and I know that when of this mighty warship with pride and excitement for it is time to recover aircraft, it will [work] every time,” what is yet to come. said Zanelotti. “We’ve been working on the AAG, but “I want to see this boat go on to do what it was I’ve never seen this system fully function at sea, so I designed to do, especially after being a part of the didn’t really know what to expect.” team that got the AAG to where it is now,” said When the day finally came and he saw the E-2D Zanelotti. “To not be a part of this crew when it makes Advanced Hawkeyes, also assigned (VX) 20, tail hook its maiden deployment would be crushing. I want to be catch the wire, the long hours of physically and mentally able to say 20 years from now that I was a member of draining preparation had finally paid off. the Gerald R. Ford team for its first true deployment.” “We spent so much time over the past few months trying to get the AAG ready and certified for fixed- Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Michael Samuel, from St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s wing operations,” said Zanelotti. “It took the combined (CVN 78) air department, prepares for flight operations on the ship’s effort of everyone here with ship’s force and Naval Air flight deck. Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter Systems Command to get everything together, and that included work being put in during standdown, but to see the system that we worked so hard to get up and running make that first trap was just surreal.” Thompson echoed the importance of coming together as a team and what it will mean for the division’s future. “We’re a little less manned than a Nimitz-class carrier, but we have the same maintenance demands,” said Thompson. “They’re doing a great job, they’re learning and catching on

License to Forklift By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Indra Beaufort

In the hangar bay of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN the safety walker, the person guiding you.” 78), Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Prior to the forklift driving test, Sailors have to Class Richard Deshaies sets up aircraft chocks for an complete prerequisites like a forklift physical from upcoming test — a forklift driving test. medical, and pass a written test. Deshaies, who trains and licenses Ford Sailors to “What we’re doing is making sure that Sailors are be forklift drivers, sets up chocks on the hangar bay doing everything correctly and complete the necessary like a road obstacle course so that Sailors can zig-zag training,” said Deshaies. their way through the graded course. In addition to the driving test, test takers also had Aviation support equipment technicians keep Ford to show examiners like Deshaies how to complete mission ready by training and licensing Sailors like the pre-operation and post-operation equipment Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Davon Eaton and Aviation inspection checklist. The checklist, said Deshaies, Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Tara Brown. ensures that the forklift is fully operational and that Deshaies said that forklift training is crucial to the driver is practicing safety habits. “For example, ensure that supplies and weapons are transported we make sure there are no chunks out of the tires, we safely to the pier. check the engine, inspect the oil and radiator fluids and “A lot of store shipments come aboard when we make sure that the forklift has directional control,” said are in port and when we are doing ammo on-load, and Brown, as she goes over her post-operation checklist that’s when we need to use the forklift,” said Deshaies. after taking the forklift driving test. “We also use the forklift to work on other supporting “All the inspections that we’re doing are so that equipment like tow tractors and mobile electric power we can drive safely,” said Eaton. plants or anything we use to work on aircraft.” Deshaies, assigned to the IM4 division of the Eaton and Brown had to work together in order to aircraft intermediate maintenance department, has pass their forklift test. They took turns playing the role trained 70 personnel during Ford’s past and present of safety walker and forklift driver. underway on the proper use of equipment, such as the “It takes teamwork,” said Brown. “The most forklift, aboard the ship. challenging part of the driving test is going in reverse. Both Brown and Eaton are looking forward to My mind was more concerned about hitting something, receiving their forklift licenses and certifications from but you have to rely on their trainer. “I feel more confident moving objects around and moving things safely because I received the forklift training,” said Brown. “I feel like I’m more of an asset because the more qualified you are, the more of an asset you are to your shipmates.”

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Jordan Springer, from Salt Lake City, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department, operates a 20k forklift in the ship’s hangar bay. Photo by MCSA Angel Thuy Jaskuloski Hydrate and Change Your Socks: A Look inside the Hospital Corpsman Community By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew R. Rice

The largest rating in the Navy, Hospital Corpsman, Inside the Hospital Corpsman community exists consists of more than 25,000 active duty and reserve nearly 40 Navy Enlisted Classifications (NEC) schools Sailors. They are located at every Naval and Marine and commands that instruct, teach and prepare installation around the world, and yet, how much do Hospital Corpsman for many different military and we really know about them? civilian medical positions. Depending on the Hospital “Being a corpsman in itself is an honor,” said Corpsman’s future command needs, a corpsman can be Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Chantelle Ponder, from sent straight to one of these programs after finishing Valdosta, Georgia, an independent duty corpsman their three month “A” school in San Antonio, Texas. assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) medical “Providing care in the military is different than the department. “We are the best. No one comes close to civilian world,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman Scott us. Every military branch knows the corpsman.” Rudy, from Vancouver, Washington, assigned to Ford’s medical department. “We have to bring all those specialties that you have in the civilian world, all in one “For corpsman, it’s not just central place. We cover the broad scope of healthcare Motrin and water. It is one of in every aspect.” those jobs that you have to Just as the Navy works side-by-side with our love what you do, you have to brother branch the Marine Corps, Hospital Corpsman love taking care of people...” can be found working alongside Marine forces in one of the most well-known corpsman NECs, the Fleet - HM2 Chantelle Ponder Marine Forces. These forces are assigned to Marine commands around the globe, providing medical Born on July 17, 1898, Hospital Corpsman or services to Marines on and off of the battle field. ‘doc’ as they are frequently referred to by Sailors and “The green side [Fleet Marine Forces] of the house Marines, have been part of Navy life and history for provides all healthcare needs as well,” said Rudy. “A 121 years. Thirty-one Medal of Honor recipients, 127 lot of our Medal of Honor recipients are found there.” Silver Stars and 291 Bronze stars have been awarded to The battlefield is not the only place you can find a corpsman, and 22 naval ships have been named after Hospital Corpsman specializing in a specific trait. Other corpsman, making the rating the most decorated rate NECs include, but are not limited to, lab technician, in the Navy. All these facts can be found by anyone physical therapy, surgery technician, dental care, X-ray with a computer and an internet connection, making us technician, fields in aviation and independent duty ask even more, how much do we really know about the corpsman (IDC), who act as care givers and providers hospital corpsman rate? to commands where there are few corpsman. “For corpsman, it’s not just Motrin and water. It is Many of these NECs transfer over to medical one of those jobs that you have to love what you do, positions outside of the naval services and help Hospital you have to love taking care of people,” said Ponder. Corpsman leaving the Navy stay in the medical field “If you have ever come down for sick call, you have they specialize in. seen we all work as a team.” “A lot of programs on the civilian side come from corpsman programs,” said Ponder. “A lot of our ratings and NECs we go to school for allow us to graduate with an associate’s degree or higher, allowing us to go into the field outside of the military.” With so many opportunities presented to the community between schools and commands, many Hospital Corpsman continue to seek new challenges and positions. Not because they use these specialties to set themselves apart from other Hospital Corpsman, but to strengthen their rating as a whole. Team work flows deep in this community and they rely on each other to provide health care to anyone in need. “If we can’t figure something out, we can look at someone else and they will help figure it out,” said Hospitalman Apprentice Christina Juarez, from San Antonio, assigned to Ford’s radiation health. “It’s an ‘I’ve got your back, you have mine’ mentality.” With a community rich in training, personnel, history and heroes, it is safe to say we have a lot to learn from this rating. If a Sailor, Marine or civilian should ever need them, just shout ‘Doc!’ and watch them sprint towards you, baring their red cross proudly. For there is a Hospital Corpsman for everything. “When you talk about our rate we are everywhere. We are with every type of unit, whether it’s at sea, under the sea or in the air,” said Rudy. “Keeping others alive to fight the nation’s battles, in whatever form or capacity that takes.”

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Chantelle Ponder, from Valdosta, Georgia, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) medical department, checks the heart rate of a patient in one of the ship’s medical examination rooms.

Photo by MCSN Zack Guth PHOTOS OF THE MONTH

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Jan. 25, 2020, A E-2D Hawkeye, assigned to Air Test and Jan. 17, 2020, A C-2A Greyhound, assigned to Air Test Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, lands aboard USS Gerald Jan. 30, 2020, An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned Jan. 28, 2020, A pilot assigned to Air Test and Evaluation 1 4 and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, lands aboard USS to the “Tridents” of Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) 9, takes Squadron (VX) 20, prepares to board a C-2A Greyhound, R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. 7 9 (Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter) off from USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck while on USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. (Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter) EA-18G Growlers, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation (Photo by MCSA Angel Thuy Jaskuloski) Squadron (VX) 23, are positioned on the ship’s catapults. (Photo by MC3 Connor Loessin) Jan. 30, 2020, An FA-18F Super Hornet and two EA- Jan. 24, 2020, An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to 18G Growlers, all assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Jan. 29, 2020, Sailors assigned to USS Gerald R. 2 Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, takes off from Squadron (VX) 23, perform a high-speed fly-by of USS 5 Ford’s (CVN 78) deck department participate in a USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. 10 Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck in formation. Jan. 25, 2020, Chief Warrant Officer Cedric Liggins, from replenishment-at-sea with USNS Laramie (T-AO 203). (Photo by MC2 Ruben Reed) (Photo by MCSN Zack Guth) 8 Paris, Texas, USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air boatswain, (Photo by MC2 Matthew Rice) directs a C-2A Greyhound, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, during flight operations. (Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter) Jan. 12, 2020, Cub Scouts from Pack 1967 and Boy Scouts Jan. 22, 2020, A C-2A Greyhound, assigned to Air Test 3 from Troop 1966 in Fairfax, Va. and Sailors assigned to 6 and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, flies over USS Gerald USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) salute the national ensign R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck during flight operations. during morning colors on the ship’s flight deck. (Photo by MCSA Zack Guth) (Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter) PHOTOS OF THE MONTH

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The Sailor places virtual reality goggles on and flight operations in real time while the ship is pierside. is instantly immersed into a different world. Their The C-ARTS classrooms have been in operation perspective changes to that of a Sailor working topside since December 2018 while Ford was at Huntington aboard a deployed aircraft carrier. They can see jets Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding in taxiing into position, flight indicators flashing and crew Newport News, Virginia. members signaling to each other. This is not a game, “Some of these Sailors here, right now, have had but training for upcoming operations. zero flight deck experience,” said Law. “So, one of the “Right now, you just have a bird’s eye view of what’s great things about the virtual reality simulator is that we can do demonstrations. The Sailors can put on the virtual reality goggles and see exactly what is going to happen.” The flight deck of an aircraft carrier during flight operations can be very hectic with personnel and equipment moving around constantly. There are many variables to account for. Being able to simulate as many of these different circumstances in a safe environment is extremely beneficial to Sailors. “If something is wrong on the flight deck or somebody is giving a suspend signal, here is what I am going to do,” said Law. “You can walk through that Lt. Joseph Dejunco, from Atlanta, Georgia, assigned to USS scenario and go through the motions. Doing the actual Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department, trains on a flight deck virtual-reality simulation trainer in the Carrier-Advanced procedures, in a simulated environment. That is a lot Reconfigurable Training System (C-ARTS) located at Naval safer.” Station Norfolk. Photo by MCSA Riley McDowell “You can walk through that happening,” said Lt. Brianne Law, from Pensacola, Florida, one of USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) naval scenario and go through the flight officers, as she guides a junior Sailor through a motions. Doing the actual flight deck virtual-reality simulation. “We are watching procedures, in a simulated the aircraft come up. There is our shooter down by environment. ” center deck. You see him give the retract signal.” - Lt. Brianne Law Sailors assigned to the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) air department began using virtual-reality to simulate flight deck operations inside the mobile Carrier- As Sailors rotate from Ford, so does their base Advanced Reconfigurable Training System (C-ARTS) of knowledge. Finding economical ways to train year- classroom located at Naval Station Norfolk. The trainer round is the primary purpose of the C-ARTS trainers. allows the Sailors to actively practice the procedures of “In aviation we have simulators,” said Law. “We have that built into our syllabus and that allows us to “The aircraft director just behind the shooter in the save time and money, and allows us to get additional yellow, he is going to signal off breaks to the pilot,” training. We thought it would be a good concept for said Law, walking through a scenario. “Take tension. carriers.” The deck edge operator is going to hit tension. We are Sailors are enjoying the training and finding it vital going to watch for good stroke, good hook, the man to mission readiness in a multitude of ways. It also goes out. Thumbs are up. The shooter takes control of provides hands-on training while creating a place for the aircraft. Goes into military power. After mil power, discussion. he makes sure the pilot does his wipe out and final “They had us grouped together,” said Aviation checks. Thumbs, thumbs, thumbs. We see the shoot Boatswain Mate (Handling) Seaman Matt Costin, an signal and we are off.” elevator operator assigned to Ford’s air department. “It was like a big meeting. They were teaching us how to use the Gerald R. Ford equipment. Then we got to talk through all the issues we were having. It was nice to get together.” The C-ARTS trainers can be arranged to facilitate virtual reality training along with augmented reality and mixed reality training. This allowed Ford to meet necessary training requirements for flight operations.

Lt. Joseph Dejunco, from Atlanta, Georgia, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department, trains on a flight deck virtual-reality simulation trainer in the Carrier-Advanced Reconfigurable Training System (C-ARTS) located at Naval Station Norfolk.

Photo by MCSA Riley McDowell From Blue to Yellow: The Life of an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cat Yanez

Cool, calm and coordinated. These are words Harris, from Chicago, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s that characterize the finesse qualified “yellow (CVN 78) air department. “In addition to earning shirts” display when directing aircraft, whether it be qualifications, you also have to gain the trust from maneuvering through a busy hangar bay or in a fast- your chain of command and show you can uphold the paced environment on the flight deck. responsibility of the job. You have to take tests and “It is an honor to be a qualified yellow shirt,” said boards after you have received the training too.” Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Jarell ABHs that are E-5 and below are required to attend Holliday, from Cambridge, Maryland, assigned to USS an ABH refresher course every five years to stay up-to- Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department. “You are date on the rate basics, and aircraft firefighting school entrusted with the lives of the pilots in aircraft as well every four years which covers firefighting techniques as the personnel on the flight deck. You are entrusted used on the flight deck and in the hangar bay. For to execute the flight plan from the first aircraft launch yellow shirts on the flight deck, Landing Signalman to the last recovery, and do it safely. Most days are long Enlisted School is a requirement in order to learn the and challenging, but it is rewarding and fun when we proper hand signals to give to pilots during launch and have completed the mission and made it home safely.” recovery, as it is the primary means of communication during flight operations. “Most days are long and When ABHs are ready to begin stepping into the challenging, but it is rewarding yellow shirt role, they become a under instruction (UI) and fun when we have yellow shirt. UI yellow shirts are shadowed by an experienced yellow shirt who completed the mission and ensures they are making the made it home safely.” right calls when directing - ABHC Jarell Holliday aircraft. “The UI yellow Aviation Boatswain’s Mates (Handling), or ABHs, [shirt] is a tough that are a qualified yellow shirt are aircraft directors process with who are able to direct aircraft without being shadowed many new by a seasoned qualified yellow shirt. procedures and “Everyone starts off as a blue shirt, but you have responsibilities,” to get your Flight Deck Observer and Plane Handler said Aviation qualifications to become a qualified blue shirt,” said Boatswain’s Mate Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Kiara (Handling) Airman

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Tristan Wyns, from Warwick, Rhode Island, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department, chocks and chains an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, to the ship’s flight deck. Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter Timothy Ojeda, from New York. “Some responsibilities supervisors that keep the flight deck flowing. It isa of mine are getting the flight plan and going over it yellow shirt’s job to keep the flight deck as safe as with my work center, and ensuring my shipmates possible with procedural compliance in everything we understand what is going to happen throughout flight do.” operations, as well as directing, parking and spotting Becoming a yellow shirt does not happen overnight aircraft under the supervision of a qualified yellow and is not simply given to ABHs after a specific time- shirt. My journey to becoming a yellow shirt has only in-rate. It takes hard work, long hours of training and begun and I am ready to take on the flight deck with a working on qualifications to earn the right to wear a clear mind and open ears.” yellow shirt. On average, it can take an ABH a few ABHs are known for not wearing ranks on their years to become a fully qualified yellow shirt. jerseys to signify the importance of being qualified as “My biggest advice for someone who is trying to opposed to what rank they are. make yellow [shirt] is to hit the ground running and “Yellow shirts do not wear rank on their sleeves don’t let anyone negative get in your head,” said due to the increased responsibility and position of Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Alexis Apodaca, authority sometimes given to junior E-3s and E-4s who from Cheyenne, Wyoming. “On Ford, it may take a have shown they are competent and capable of being little longer to obtain in-rate qualifications as an ABH a yellow shirt,” said Holliday. “Yellow because we’re just starting to ramp up and catch shirts are the flight deck aircraft, but if you want to make it happen, you can. Just do it to the best of your ability and stand out.” Finally receiving a yellow shirt is a significant moment in the career of an ABH. When flight operations are being conducted and the yellow shirts are on deck, rest assured they are doing what they do best because they trained for it.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Sidney Gutierrez, from Miami, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department, signals while directing an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, during flight operations. Photo by MC2 Sean Elliott

Background: A T-45 Goshawk, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, prepares to launch from USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. Photo by MCSA Riley McDowell Shore vs Sea: The Challenge of Landing Aircraft at Sea By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zack Guth

Eight months ago, Air Traffic Controller 2nd class operations and provides guidance and direction for Brandyn Maddux, from Palm Coast, Florida, was on pilots while out at sea. shore duty stationed at Naval Air Station Norfolk Maddux believes even the work atmosphere is Chamber’s Field as part of the air traffic control team. different from sea duty to shore. Currently, Maddux is assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s “For me it was kind of a culture shock; you get (CVN 78) operations department, helping guide here and it’s so much more than air traffic control on aircraft over the Atlantic Ocean for fixed wing flight the ship,” said Maddux. “Between deck qualifications, operations for the first time in over 700 days. damage control and more responsibilities outside your Since this is Maddux’s first sea-going command, workspace, you’ve got to keep up with so much more he’s now experienced first-hand the difference than talking to airplanes.” between shore-based air traffic control and air traffic Burns said he prefers sea duty compared to shore control from the massive moving runway that is an duty because there is balance and routine. aircraft carrier. “I love the sea duty aspect,” said Burns. “Once you get underway, you get into a set schedule. You wake “To me, my job is extremely up, have breakfast, clean, and then you get into the important because we have cyclic operations, flight ops, and once we get certified, we can get [low visibility] operations going, land someone’s life in our hands...” everyone, go workout, and go to sleep.” - AC2 Brandyn Maddux Maddux said there is a crucial change in air space between shore to sea and that air space can change at “It’s definitely something completely different on any moment. shore duty, where you have fixed runways, and nothing “With the ship constantly moving, there’s air space moves,” said Maddux. “But when you get here, you restrictions and regulations. You may start the event could have a [pilot] on final approach, and you have and you’ll be in airspace where we’re good to go,” said to change your heading every sweep of the radar just Maddux. “But, when you get to the middle or end of because the ship could be in a turn, or we could get a an event and you may get to the edge of an airspace weird gust of wind.” and it’s hot, meaning some other entity is using that Just like Maddux, the challenge and change of air airspace, and we can no longer get into it.” traffic control at sea is also appreciated by other air “You don’t run into problems like that on shore traffic controllers. duty, and you have days and days before a restriction is “I love the challenge you are presented every day going to pop-up near your airspace or in your airspace when it comes to dealing with aircraft,” said Air Traffic to plan for things like that, but out here your moving Controller 1st Class Bernard Burns Jr., from Columbia, and it could change just like that,” said Maddux, as he South Carolina. “For example, maintaining separation, snaps his fingers. the aspect of vectoring guys around, getting them As part of Ford’s air traffic control team, Maddux established up and around in the air, or getting ready and Burns have been integral to Ford’s current to descend and land here on the carrier.” successful flight deck operations. Both Maddux and Burns work in Ford’s carrier “To me, my job is extremely important because we air traffic control center, which is crucial for all flight have someone’s life in our hands,” said Burns. Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Bernard Burns Jr., from Columbia, South Carolina, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department, provides sea-born air traffic directions from Ford’s carrier air traffic control center.

Photo by MCSN Zack Guth Gerald R. Ford (1974 – 1977)

George H.W. Bush (1989 – 1993)

John F. Kennedy (1961 – 1963)

Richard M. Nixon (1969 – 1974) Lyndon B. Johnson (1963 – 1969)

James Earle Carter (1977 – 1981)

HAPPY PRESIDENTS DAY FROM U.S. NAVY’S OFFICERS TURNED PRESIDENTS The “Cool” Guys on the Flight Deck By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Indra Beaufort

Wearing polarized sunglasses, with khaki pants commissioned officer and aviator in the United States and flight deck gear, Lt. Hunter “Sheriff” Fahey has Navy. After attending Officer Candidate School a front row view aft of the flight deck of an aircraft in Newport, Rhode Island and graduating from an carrier as he directs Navy pilots to land their aircrafts indoctrination course at Naval Aviation Schools at an ear-shattering 160 miles per hour. Command in Pensacola, Florida, Fahey proceeded to “We make sure the pilot stays safe and the deck is the primary training pipeline. Fahey chose to attend safe for the pilot,” said Fahey, a landing signal officer tailhook training and was assigned to an air wing. (LSO) aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78). The 34-year-old Fahey, from Wichita, Kansas, is “There are so many things assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, that need to happen on temporarily assigned to the Ford for training and testing a Ford-class [carrier] that purposes. The ship is conducting aircraft compatibility testing to further test its Electromagnetic Aircraft people don’t realize,” Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear - Lt. Hunter “Sheriff” Fahey (AAG). “We’re dipping a big toe into salt water,” said Fahey was sent to Carrier Air Wing (CVW-5), Fahey, on further evaluating the ship’s EMALS and the Navy’s forward-deployed air wing at Naval Air AAG. Facility Atsugi. Fahey said he was surprised when he “There are so many things that need to happen on was recommended to be a LSO via word-of-mouth a Ford-class [carrier] that people don’t realize,” he said by CVW-5 squadron LSOs while underway on USS Fahey. “We’re purposely exploring the ship. It’s eye- George Washington (CVN 73). Fahey’s new title was opening for everybody to see. We’ve come a long way a celebrated occasion rewarded with a coin from since we started, and we’re getting a lot done.” squadron LSOs and a nominating letter from his All LSOs are pilots, but not all pilots can be LSOs. commanding officer. LSOs are what the air department crew calls the After being selected, the chosen ones are sent to “chosen ones”. the Navy Landing Signal Officer School at Naval Air “Not everybody gets to be an LSO,” said Fahey. Station Oceana. At LSO school, naval aviators learn “It’s the cool kids club.” how to expedite safe and speedy recovery for all Fahey’s aviator genes run strong. Having lived in aircraft on a nuclear-powered carrier. Singapore and Dubai as a child, he comes from a family “I love being an LSO because it’s a great who sold business jets for a living. part about being part of an Fahey chose to become a air wing,” said Fahey.

Landing signal officers help land an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, on USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck. Photo by MCSA Riley McDowell Fellow LSO team member Lt. Paul Deluca, from “It was a perfect day,” said Fahey about an Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, also assigned to VX-20, evolution he experienced. “But, the sun washed out echoes Fahey’s remarks. the [pilot’s] eyes.” Fahey called power and told the “It’s fun to be an LSO,” said Deluca. “It also helps pilot to push up on the throttle because the aircraft you be a better pilot and it adds another level of had inadvertently disengaged auto throttle. situational awareness on a platform. It’s nice to know “My most favorite experience is probably saving what the people in control are actually thinking. It’s an somebody from advanced level of knowledge.” ejecting,” said Fahey. LSOs say their job can be physically demanding, Landing signal working long hour shifts. An LSO goes above and officers also rely on visual beyond, conducting pre-flight checks, and personally landing tools to help guide meeting with all of the pilots in all the ready rooms to their decision-making process. establish effective communication. A “meatball” or a visual glide scope “It’s comforting to know that when you’re flying indicator is a device on the lens of the ship LSOs the airplanes, the landing signal officers are going use to aid pilots on when it is safe to land aircraft on to talk to you and land you safely on the ship,” said the carrier. However, Fahey feels that throughout his Deluca. “It’s not always easy to land on the ship.” naval career, he has developed a keen sense of his Fahey said landing an aircraft is challenging but eyesight. has its rewards. “Through the years, I’ve offered my own glide scope,” said Fahey, confidently. “Part of an LSO is being In addition, Fahey said that LSOs are one of the ready in that fraction of a only jobs in naval aviation to wear single-protective hearing. Since different aircrafts sound differently, second when you’re saving a LSOs need to be more cognizant and able to detect all pilot’s life,” a i r c r a f t l a n d i n g o n t h e fl i g h t d e c k . - Lt. Hunter “Sheriff” Fahey Historically, LSOs have been around since the 1920s. According to Wave-Off!: A History of LSOs “Part of an LSO is being ready in that fraction of and Ship-Board Landings, the first aircraft launch and a second when you’re saving a pilot’s life,” said Fahey. recovery procedure was completed aboard the USS “You are keeping everybody safe.” Langley (CV 1) in 1922. Other historical sources noted Other challenging factors when landing an aircraft that Langley’s executive officer Cmdr. Kenneth Whiting safely are the unpredictable wind intensities and sun used a hand-cranked movie camera to evaluate aircraft directions throughout the day. landings. Naval aviators during this time suggested Sometimes, Fahey said, the trajectory of the sun using pilots as LSOs to aid them in landing aircrafts. can be worse than the wind because the harsh sunlight “In the senior world, we are called “paddles” can blur a pilot’s vision, which makes it challenging for because we used to use paddles [to signal the pilots],” the pilot to visualize the landing of an aircraft. Fahey said. tested on their pilot skills, with goals to also attain a high GPA. On January 18, Fahey flew an E-2D Hawkeye Fahey said there is and celebrated his wife’s birthday with his first launch an unwritten “contract” between and trap on the Ford. pilots and LSOs. Trust integrity Ford’s air department crew say that landing signal and accountability are essential to the professional officers are necessary and integral to naval aviation. relationship between a pilot and an LSO. “There was a period of time where LSOs were not The LSO team not only includes senior officers required and there was an increase in mishaps,” said but also rookie LSOs called the “peanut gallery.” The Fahey. additional team members are the extra eyes and ears Fahey and the rest of the LSO crew said that they that senior LSOs need to perform their jobs more are proud to be part of Ford’s history in the first of efficiently. many shipboard multi-role aircraft evolutions and Besides expediting safety and speed landing, landings. LSOs also grade a pass or pilot’s landing on the flight deck over the course of an underway. Just like school, An EA-18G Growler, pilots are graded on a grade point average (GPA) assigned to Air Test and from a scale between 2.0 (a no grade) to a high 4.0. Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, approaches USS Grading scale varies from new to experienced pilots Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) and whether pilots are flying lighter or heavier jets. flight deck. LSOs do fly often and, when they do, they too get Photo by MC3 Ryan Carter Happy Valentines Day From: USS Gerald R. Ford To: You and Yours