SHUTTLEtheUSS Enterprise (CVN 65) - Thursday, April 21, 2011

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the Page 3Thursday, April 21, 2011

Enterprise NewsSHUTTLE

By MCSN Jared M. KingUSS Enterprise Public AffairsUSS ENTERPRISE, At sea – With more than 890 sorties under their belts and more than 1,655 flight hours as of April 20, one fighter squadron embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) says it’s the finest and most uniquely equipped squadron aboard. That’s not just your expected fighter pilot bravado. The “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 are the only tactical reconnaissance squadron of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, with the unique capability to perform reconnaissance—taking photos and often transmitting them immediately back to the ship to provide a near real-time picture of what’s happening. The squadron is equipped with two shared reconnaissance pods (SHARP), which can be transferred for use on any of the squadron’s 11 F/A-18F Super Hornets. “It’s really awe-inspiring to be within a cockpit which is so small, yet so capable,” said Lt. j.g. Morgan A. Kitchen, a weapons systems officer assigned to the Checkmates. “It’s incredible that something this powerful can seem so small and insignificant in the vastness of the sky.” The Checkmates, one of two squadrons in CVW-1 that flies the F/A-18F, or two-seat Super Hornet, also have five pilots qualified to operate the forward air control (FAC) (airborne) capability only found on this variant of the jet. This

capability allows the pilots to integrate with joint tactical air controllers (JTAC) on the ground. The FAC(A) provides an air support connection to ground troops and gives them access to a unique picture on the ground and the ability to control the fire of other aircraft. “Although we have one of the most capable platforms in all of [U.S.] 5th Fleet, none of these aircraft could be employed without the dedicated professionals who work day and night to get the mission done,” said Cmdr. James A. McCall, commanding officer of VFA-211. Seventeen pilots, 15 weapons systems officers, 4 maintenance officers, and 185 enlisted Sailors make up the team that supports 25-35 flight hours per day and 18-20 sorties six days per week.

“Each time we are able to support troops on the ground is a testament to the hard work done by every member of our squadron,” said Lt. j.g. Jocelyn K. Liberg, a weapons systems officer assigned to the Checkmates. “Everyone contributes in different ways, and no one is more important than the other.” The squadron’s maintenance personnel work around the clock to ensure every aircraft is mission-ready at all times. “We always keep in mind that everything goes up, and gravity will take over if something goes wrong,” said VFA-211’s Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Evelyn Scott. “Mistakes are unacceptable in this organization, and time is critical.” Liberg said there are difficulties and successes in every team, but the way

the Checkmates maintain a positive balance between both is what sets them apart from the rest. “I couldn’t be more proud to lead such a cohesive set of warriors dedicated to a singular goal,” said McCall. “Our squadron is rich in the tradition of excellence, and this group of Checkmates is upholding that tradition.” This squadron of professional aviators and support Sailors are unique and uniquely capable aboard Enterprise. The fact that they are proud of what they do is evident in the way they talk about their team. Wearing their patented red and white checkered flight suits, and flying the most sophisticated fighter jets aboard, what at first seems like bravado is quickly understood as bravery.

Checkmates of VFA-211 are ‘picture perfect’

A plane captain signals to pilots of an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the “Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 during preparations for flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65).

Photo by MCSN Jared M. King

the Thursday, April 21, 2011Page 4 SHUTTLE

Photos by MCSN Jared M. King

Sailors of the DayBoatswain’s Mate SeamanBrandon J. Dawson - Brooklyn, New York

BMSN Dawson, assigned to Deck department’s 1st division, joined the Navy three years ago for its educational benefits and career options. To Dawson, the most rewarding aspects of his job are the appreciation he receives from other Sailors around the ship and the hands-on management skills gained by performing his daily tasks. Dawson aspires to one day earn a bachelor of science degree and become a naval aviator. During his free time, Dawson enjoys hanging out with his friends.

AT3 Gribcheck, an avionics maintenance technician assigned to the “Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, joined the Navy three years ago to see the world. To Gribcheck, the most rewarding aspect of his job is “learning new things about my aircraft every day.” Gribcheck is working hard to finish his EAWS qualification and make 2nd class petty officer. He also aspires to earn a college degree and become a naval officer in the future. During his spare time, Gribcheck enjoys hanging out with friends and living life to the fullest.

Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd ClassStefan M. Gribcheck - Solon, Ohio

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