NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER Issue 4

Navy RAM: Reserve Aviation

Maintainer

K

CDR ECHEVARRIA SALUTES CAPT GOFF DURING FRCE DETACHMENT JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHUSRT (DET JB MDL) CHANGE OF CHARGE AS COL HARPER,

FRCE COMMANDING OFFICER, LOOKS ON.

BOARD RESULTS

Welcome to the latest edition of NAVY

RAM. FY-18 Reserve O-6 board results have been released and both the O-5 and O-4 boards have adjourned.

In this edition, CAPT Young, TYCOM MO for Commander, Naval Air Forces Reserve sits down for the Big Interview. We hope that you will find his insights and perspectives informative.

Changing of the guard. In our cover

photo, CDR Luis Echevarria relieved CAPT Jason Goff as Officer in Charge, FRCE Detachment Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JB MDL) on April 21, 2017. CAPT Goff received orders for follow-on assignment to relieve CAPT Washington as Commanding Officer, Military Personnel Directorate NAVAIRSYSCOM; NAVAIRSYSCOM Operational Support Officer; Reserve AED/AMD Career Manager; and Total Force Strategy, Management & Development (AIR 7.3).

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

CAPT Washington’s retirement ceremony takes place at 1000 on 16 June, 2017 at the VX-23 Hangar in Patuxent River, MD. RSVP to LCDR Clement Smith at clement.smith1@navy.mil

BZ’S

VR-57 earns perfect MPA Score

Congratulations to the VR-57 Maintenance Department for achieving a rare perfect score on their MPA from 8 through 11 May. The Conquistador Maintenance Team received a grade of “On Track” for 35 of 35 NAMP Programs, and satisfactory grades on 5 of 5 drills and 50 of 50 practical evaluations.

PAMO PQS Completion: LCDR Brandon Michaelis, FRC NW LT Louis Boudart, FRCE DET JB MDL

FY-18 O-6 Selections

SELRES AEDO (1515):

CDR S. G. Denihan

CDR C. A. Runyon

SELRES AMDO (1525)

CDR K. J. Askew

CDR E. L. Berry

FTS AMDO (1527): CDR B. E. Osborne

Spring FY-17 FTS AMDO Redesignation

LT Juan Lucero, 6330

LT Thomas Madera, 6330

LT Mark Tomlinson, 6330

LTJG James Hamrick, 6335

POCR

LTJG Michael Gaito

Summer/Fall 2017

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 2

Reader Feedback:

We would love to hear from you. Please provide feedback on Newsletter design, content, or suggestions for topics you want to see covered in future editions of Navy RAM via the inbox at reserveaviationmaintenance@gmail.com

Send pictures for inclusion in future Newsletters to LCDR Chris Baxter (christopher.a.baxter@navy.mil)

Authors Wanted: All FTS AMDO, SELRES AMDO, SELRES LDO/CWO, or friends/supporters of the Reserve Aviation Maintenance community are encouraged to submit articles germane to the publication’s audience.

New Aircraft Maintenance Support Units and Billets Coming Soon

In the coming years, Navy Reserve (NR) Sailors will see an increase in maintenance opportunities at Fleet Readiness Centers (FRC) as three new Reserve depot level units are established.

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Reserve Program (NRP) Maintenance Modification and Overhaul (MMO) unit has two detachments at FRC Northwest and FRC Southeast, with three new detachments being established at San Diego, Fort Worth, and Norfolk. The units will train locally at the Fleet Readiness Centers (FRCs) and be employed anywhere maintenance support is required.

The NR-MMO headquarters unit, under the command of Capt. Robert Mark, reports to Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers (COMFRC), who considers Mark his “ninth FRC CO.” The units support the FRC enterprise by providing maintenance and engineering support to aircraft readiness. The expansion is part of the

community’s Reserve Maintenance – RESMAIN initiative to expand that maintenance and engineering capability/capacity, “Using the Reserves in their entirety,” as explained by NAVAIR Operational Support Officer Capt. Eric Washington.

RESMAIN is in alignment with Naval Aviation Enterprise Vision 2020 and is designed to capture unutilized Selected Reserve (SELRES) talent in the FRC geographic areas in the United States. Additionally, RESMAIN is working with COMFRC and Commander, Navy Reserve Forces (CNRFC), to resource the detachments and build training/certification programs suitable and sustainable for reservists. Of the three new detachments, two have already been created. In short, “We are building a capability/capacity to add strategic depth to assist in closing the Ready Basic Aircraft (RBA) gap,” said Mark. “It is an exciting time to be in the NRP.”

NAVAIR Reserve Program Manager Cmdr. Jeff Pizanti revealed, “MMO Det B has the most applicants of all the units, and not just from Florida, or even Navy Region Southeast Reserve Component

Command, but nationwide.” As new units come on-line that may change. If the end state is realized there will be an additional 252 SELRES billets added to the unit in the upcoming years. In the interim, the unit is leveraging under-utilized local Cross-Assigned and In Assignment Processing status Sailors. This effort will provide aviation maintainers additional career choices to serve within their rate. Command Master Chief of the NRP Jim Garlington put it this way, “We intend to ‘right that ship’ and give our young Reservist Sailors a choice they have not historically had – to contribute to the depot maintenance piece of the aviation maintenance puzzle.”

The MMO unit and detachments are pursuing an official name change to NR-Fleet Readiness Center/Logistics and industrial Execution (NR-FRC/L&IE), currently processing through CNFRC.

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The Big Interview with CAPT Young, CNAFR TYCOM MO …………...…………..3

Meet our Newest FTS AMDOs ……..……8

Detailer’s Diary …………………….……..….9

JO Jungle……………………………….…..….10

RAM in the Spotlight ….……..……….……11

The BIG Interview: CAPT Young, Commander Naval Air Forces Reserve (CNAFR) Type Commander Maintenance Officer (TYCOM MO) took time out to answer questions from Navy RAM on a range of topics we hope you will find both and insightful and beneficial.

Navy RAM: For those who may not be aware, what are the responsibilities of the CNAFR TYCOM MO?

CAPT Young: My job is to keep the Admiral updated on the status of all Reserve Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. On a day-to-day basis, the N42 staff works with our counterparts at CNAF, NAVAIR Program Offices, FST, COMFRC, and various external organizations so the Wings and Squadrons can generate flight line readiness. CNAFR N42 critical functions: - Aircraft accounting and assignment - Engine management - Waivers/deviations - Depot coordination - ISR coordination - SE management - Policy clarification/change initiation

Navy RAM: What do you like best about being TYCOM MO?

CAPT Young: As a young LDO my goal was to be a CAGMO. Didn’t think I’d wind up spending over 37 years in the Navy. I enjoy being involved with all our TMS.

Wing MO was a great job. This steps it up a notch.

Navy RAM: What is the one thing you wish you knew before taking this job?

CAPT Young: To be honest, there weren’t too many surprises. I was CNAFR N42B 2010-12, so knew mostly what I was getting into. Coming in zone for CAPT, I was pleased to line up for the TYCOM MO job. Although there are always challenging days, a key aspect of what currently makes this job relatively smooth running and enjoyable, is my “counterpart” in our two O6 billet

structure. CAPT Washington and I have known each other since around 1998 when we were both Lieutenants at NAS Cecil Field, Florida. He was a squadron 1520 and I was an Active Component LDO. We’ve worked closely together over the years and I’ve been slotted right below him on the 1527 seniority chart for much of the past two decades. We make a good 1-2 punch because he has extensive NAVAIR experience. I believe my background is best suited for this job. It keeps me close as you can get to the flight line as a 1527 AMDO CAPTAIN.

Table of Contents

CAPT Young and LCDR Chris Baxter discuss C-130 aircraft readiness at CNAFR Headquarters, Norfolk, VA

continued on pg. 4

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Navy RAM: How would you assess the current state of Reserve aviation equipment?

CAPT Young: There are always challenges maintaining legacy platforms. Good news is that we have system upgrades underway for nearly all our aircraft TMS. We have newer Growlers at VAQ-209, newer Helos at HSM-60, and accepted our newest C-40 in fall 2016. At the same time, our Hornets are among the oldest in the fleet, we have P-3 aircraft with uncertain life-limits, and we’re still flying the HH-60H. Some aircraft that appear to be new (or newer looking) like the C-20 and C-40 platforms actually have some BUNOs that are more than 15 years old. Our C-130 aircraft average age is more than 24 years, and even as we’re upgrading systems to increase current capabilities, we’re looking down the road and planning for when they will need to be replaced.

Navy RAM: What is the biggest readiness challenge from the Reserve TYCOM perspective?

CAPT Young: I would say aircraft and equipment recapitalization within a resource constrained environment. Bet you’ve never heard that before Working under a continuing resolution is tough. This fiscal year, we started out knowing our ISR/Depot $ pot wasn’t full so, where possible, we’ve taken proactive efforts to prioritize how our dollars are spent. On a daily basis, we work with CNAFR N-43 to determine funding priorities. We have good, hard-working Sailors in our squadrons and support units, but older aircraft tend to require more “wrench turning”, and platform/TMS experience is always a challenge.

Navy RAM: Is there a plan for scheduled maintenance time reduction?

CAPT Young: We’re always looking for opportunities to implement efficiencies. Our Wings are relied on greatly to be a source of innovation in this area and our Wing MOs and Readiness Officers are positioned to share good ideas openly with their counterparts, then use new information to develop individual

solutions specific to their TMS. There are a range of issues that impact scheduled maintenance completion times, from lack of resources (parts/engineering decisions/funding), to Sailors pulled away from a phase aircraft to perform aircraft wash jobs, conduct launches, or attend school, etc. The F-5 Program Office/FST, CNAFR Class Desk and TSW have been conducting a deep-dive on scheduled maintenance requirements and we’re anticipating positive results. Fleet representation at TMS PMRs and MELRs is absolutely critical. I’m sure Wing MOs are open to suggestions from MMCOs and troops on the hangar deck turning wrenches. Those putting hands on the aircraft are often the best source for process improvement.

Navy RAM: What steps are being taken at the Reserve TYCOM to address maintainer platform experience issues?

CAPT Young: AMEX is an NAE metric that provides leadership with the experience levels, across all TMS, of E-5 through E-9 Sailors in certain rates. A Sailor is considered experienced if he or she has

CAPT Young with 1527 attendees at the C-130 MELR in San Diego, CA From left: LT Depremio, LT Sabin, LCDR Eberle, LCDR Baxter, LT Kobeski, CAPT Young, LTJG Gaito, LT Greene, and LCDR Rajhel

continued on pg. 5

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 5

three years of experience within a specific type model, or reassignment to the same type model within the past five years. Updates to the AMEX algorithm aim to improve metrics for a more accurate “experience” measurement. Ideally, skill reutilization would automatically be monitored to target distribution efforts so that experience counts. For a simplified example, if an E-5 with Hornet experience is applying for a billet in an F/A-18 squadron and another E-5 without equivalent experience also applies, the one with platform experience would be selected.

CNAFR maintenance personnel reutilization has unique issues/challenges: commercial derivative aircraft (C-40), small TMS community (C-130/H-60), small enlisted manpower pool, etc. The Reserve P-3 community, with sundown in the not too distant future, is working to overcome this issue as we speak. Somewhat related, we’ve made significant headway on SELRES NEC attainment. Bottom line, leadership is working this issue.

Navy RAM: What is your vision for the future of the FTS AMDO community?

CAPT Young: When I shifted to FTS from Active Component LDO we had CFLSW, a Reserve P-3 Wing, a Helo Wing, a CAG that closely mirrored an active component CAG, and multiple AIMDs. Overall, we’ve fared well through the changes but we must continue to add value to the CNAFR mission to remain viable. I guess the best way to state how confident I am for the future of our community is that if a young and qualified 1520 or LDO asked for my advice on redesignating into the 1527 community, I would not hesitate to tell him or her to drop a package and come on over. We first stood up the community in 1990 because Reserve aviation leadership saw the value in having a group of maintenance professionals to support the Reserve aviation mission. CNAFR continues to be our primary sponsor and is the driving force for our sustainment and any future growth.

Navy RAM: In “Big Interview” tradition, we’d like to use the remaining time for a series of rapid fire questions to help our audience get to know you better.

Navy RAM: BBQ or Seafood CAPT Young: BBQ

Navy RAM: Country or Rock & Roll CAPT Young: Both? ...ok Rock.

Navy RAM: Fishing or hunting? CAPT Young:– Neither very often. Fishing….you can sleep while you do it (I think), and I only shoot at targets.

Navy RAM: Football or baseball? CAPT Young: I’ve tried to convince myself that I like both the same, but gotta go with football.

Navy RAM: What sports teams do you follow? CAPT Young: For pro sports, I follow the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers. I like college sports as well and since I’m originally from Oklahoma, I root for Sooner football but for college basketball, I usually pull for the local team wherever I’m stationed. I’m fortunate to have lived

CAPT Young delivers opening remarks to kick off the 2017 C-130 MELR in San Diego, CA

continued on pg. 6

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in some good areas for quality college basketball.

Navy RAM: Favorite food CAPT Young: Mexican.

Navy RAM: Best movie of all time? CAPT Young: – Can I give you more than one? I like O Brother, Where art Thou? and Guardians of the Galaxy. Hard to pick even just two.

Navy RAM: Tell us something the community would be surprised to know about you? CAPT Young: I have Black Sabbath ‘Iron Man’ as my cell phone ring tone. I made Chief in 1990 onboard the USS SARATOGA (VFA-83) while floating around the Red Sea during Desert Shield/Storm. Made LDO in 1994 while on instructor duty in Millington, TN. Transitioned to FTS after closing down Cecil Field AIMD in 1999.

Navy RAM: What do you like to do in your spare time? CAPT Young: Remodel something in my house. I’m also an avid reader. Genre really doesn’t matter but I read a lot of spy (is that a genre?), history and science fiction. Navy RAM: Whose music do you sing to when no one is within earshot? CAPT Young: Anything Classic Rock from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Aerosmith and Led Zep.

Navy RAM: Final thoughts you would like to share with the Reserve AMDO community? CAPT Young: Number one: Job Performance is critical to your success. Sound basic? Doesn’t matter how many degrees or special quals you have if you’re not doing your job well.

Number Two: Always have a plan B. Ensure your boss and the Detailer knows your duty/career preference. Recognize that senior officers see, hear, know, and are often positioned to anticipate manning needs or changes, so let them know your desires. They might know of something developing that might be just the job for you. It also helps to talk to people currently in the jobs you want so you can determine what they really do and whether you actually want the job. If you’re trying to homestead, you might

miss out on great jobs. I’ve thought that I was going to retire at least three times since I’ve been commissioned. As a young active component LDO, I thought I would complete my 10 year payback then retire and find a job at the Depot (FRC) in JAX. Then as an O-4, I thought about retiring again. I bought land, had a house design, and even picked a builder but then I was offered a great job at CNAP (CNAF). I sold my horses, trailer and tractor and headed to San Diego. Keep in mind that I had to move to take the good jobs each time. Number three: Get a mentor (or mentors) and be a mentor. Lastly, if you’re learning your job and doing well, and PAMO is going to take a while because of your experience or deployment situation, don’t neglect graduate education and DAWIA training.

Navy RAM: CAPT Young, thanks again for being so generous with your time!

LCDR Art Castro is assigned to the NAVAIR Navy and Marine Corps Multi-Mission Tactical UAS Program Office (PMA-266) as the Readiness Cell Team Lead. He is currently under orders to NAVAIRSYSCOMHQ with a June 2017 PRD.

He was born and raised on the island of Luzon in the Philippines and moved to Guam as a teenager. He was motivated to join the Navy by an uncle who was a Senior Chief Petty Officer. He enlisted in September 1998 as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AD).

After advancing to Petty Officer 2nd

Class, his division chief encouraged him to apply for a commission. This Chief had a profound impact on LCDR Castro and taught him to become a good mentor. LCDR Castro transitioned from Active Duty to the FTS AMDO community Active Duty after missing his aviation roots. Over his career, he has executed eight permanent change-of-station (PCS) orders. During that time, he has either deployed to or visited places like Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Caledonia, Russia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. He has been a volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) since 2008. He believes that those who possess a willingness to work and learn will always succeed in the Navy.

LCDR Art Castro resides in Great Mills, MD with his wife and their two children.

Learn more about him by watching one of the Navy Diversity videos-

https://youtu.be/tRLv2NDVt5I

RAM in the Spotlight

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 7

Congratulations to the VR-61 Islanders, CNAFR’s

Battle E and McCampbell Trophy Award Winners!

Anyone entering the squadron spaces of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron SIX ONE will notice the squadron motto “Around the World, Around the Clock” prominently displayed next to the entrance. Over the last year the VR-61 Islanders demonstrated that this motto is more than merely words on a wall, it is the standard of commitment for which they strive to achieve each and every day. In recognition of their efforts, the VR-61 Islanders, led by Commander Rocky Burns, was awarded the Noel Davis Battle “E” award for 2016.

Fiscal Year 2016 (FY-16) served as a pivotal growth year for Fleet Logistics Support Squadron SIX ONE (VR-61). In its second full year of operating the C-40A, still awaiting delivery of its third primary aircraft authorized and the construction of their permanent hangar, the Islanders of VR-61 performed phenomenally, flying more than 1,600 hours per aircraft for a total of 3,242 flight hours. Additionally, VR-61 was the only squadron in the Wing to achieve 100% RFT each month in FY-16, and has continued this level of

excellence through the first quarter of FY-17. VR-61 expertly executed its mission, providing Navy Unique Fleet Essential Airlift worldwide by safely conducting mission planning, maintenance, and training. The Islanders forged into new areas of responsibility deploying to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) after an eight-year absence, proudly surpassed 34 years and 135,900 Class A mishap free flight hours, and earned the Blue “M” for sustained medical readiness. This growth and execution as a squadron was unparalleled and represents the Islander culture of highly competent personnel capable of supporting flexible, time critical, logistic mission requirements “Around the World, Around the Clock.”

The outstanding work ethic of the VR-61 Islanders resulted in a phenomenally successful year in FY-16, far surpassing Wing average flight hours per airframe, successfully deploying for eight months in new detachment sites, achieving outstanding results on all inspections, and qualifying numerous aircrew and maintenance personnel. Being the newest squadron operating the C-40A, the Islanders took advantage of their unique opportunity to build good habits from a clean slate. The Islanders focused on basic maintenance procedures while also having a fresh perspective of all

operations. This fortunate combination created a fundamentally sound foundation while also providing efficient process improvements for the squadron. As a result, this attitude is now pervasive throughout the squadron and has been ingrained into the culture. These achievements are just some of the examples of the superior growth of VR-61 in FY-16 and are a result of Islanders continuing to build on experiences to safely and efficiently operate the C-40A aircraft. Each member of VR-61 displays a desire to improve every day, not to be just another asset for the Wing and NALO, but to lead the community into the future. Lastly, and most importantly, all Islanders have succeeded in taking care of their PEOPLE, doing their job SAFELY, and more COMPETENTLY than any other squadron.

Pick-up crew for -036, the Navy’s newest C-40 aircraft

Top: -695 on ramp in Bahrain; Middle: VR-61 MMCO LCDR Evan Hart with spouse Holly and Skipper Burns during promotion quarters; Bottom: Crew for ferry flight from Boeing to home base

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 8

Meet the Newest FTS AMDO’s

LT Thomas “Tom” Madera is a native of Severn, MD. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree and enlisted in the United States Navy on January 29, 1991. He attended Recruit Training Command at San Diego, CA. and in May of 1991 transferred to the USS RACINE (TAR) homeported in Long Beach, CA as a Boatswains Mate. He chose AME as a desired career field and reported to NATTC Millington, TN for training in May 1993. He then received orders to VP-5 Mad Foxes in Jacksonville, FL. After sea duty he transferred to NAES Lakehurst, NJ in 1995. He then transferred to S-3 Vikings with VS-32 Maulers in Jacksonville, FL. making cruises on the USS JOHN F. KENNEDY and the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT. He then transferred to NATTC Pensacola for Instructor Duty in April 2003 earning his Master Training Specialist qualification. LT Madera was selected as Instructor of The Year, awarded the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Excellence Award, selected as the Sailor of The Year for the Naval Air Technical Training Center and also selected as the Center for Naval Education and Training Domain Sailor of the Year in 2005.

Lieutenant Madera was commissioned in May 2007 and completed Officer Indoctrination School in Newport, RI. He then reported to CNATTU Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi as Training Department Head and Command Legal

Officer. LT Madera then transferred to NAS Whidbey Island, WA with VP-1 Screaming Eagles as the MCO and MMCO and AMO. He then transferred to VP-30 Pros Nest as the MMCO and the AMO. LT Madera is currently attached to VP-9 Golden Eagles as the MMCO and is currently deployed to Japan. He resides with his wife Sherry and has three children, Thomas, Billy, and Amanda. Hobbies include camping, football, fishing and family. His mother, three brothers and 5 sisters reside in Maryland.

LT Juan Lucero A native of Rota, Spain, Lieutenant Lucero graduated from Great Mills High School in 1993. In April 1994, he reported to Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, IL, and graduated in June 1994.

After completion of ASA1 “A” School and “C”, he reported to the USS America (CV-66) in Norfolk, VA for duty as Aviation Support Equipment Technician. While serving onboard, he promoted to Third Class Petty Officer. In July 1996, he reported to Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, where he served as a Support Equipment Technician and promoted to Second Class Petty Officer. From August of 1998 to August 2001, he served at NAS Oceana, AIMD, in Virginia Beach, VA. In August of 2001, he reported for duty onboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) where he promoted to First Class Petty Officer and served as 900 Division LPO and AIMD Production Control LPO and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. Following his tour onboard “TR”, he reported to Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) to serve as an instructor. There, he earned his Master Training Specialist (MTS) and promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer.

He was selected and was commission as a Limited Duty Officer (LDO) in March of 2007. His first duty station as an officer was Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15 (HM-15), where he served as Assistant Maintenance Officer (AMO), Quality Assurance Officer (QAO), Maintenance and Material Control Officer (MMCO) and Detachment Maintenance Officer (DETMO) in the Fifth Fleet Area of

Responsibility. During this tour, he earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Saint Leo University.

In June of 2011, he was assigned to Commander Helicopter Combat Wing Pacific (COMHSCWINGPAC) in NAS North Island, San Diego, CA as Readiness Officer, Inspection/Training Team Lead and Budget Officer. Following this tour, in November 2013, he reported to Fleet Logistics Squadron 30 (VRC-30) and served as MMCO and DETMO in three separate occasions and “back to back” Westpac deployments.

LT Lucero holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and a Master of Business Administration degree from Saint Leo University. He teaches undergraduate business class at Saint Leo University in San Diego, CA as an adjunct professor. His personal decorations include the Navy Commendation Medal, one award and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, five awards.

LT Mark Tomlinson

YG 2007 (Nov, 2006) Hometown: Bragg City, Missouri Service History: 1990 Missouri Army National Guard (Military Police - Operations Desert Storm/Shield) 1991 Joined Navy - Great Lakes Boot Camp/AZ "A" School 1992-1994 - HC-16 Pensacola, Florida

AZAN Tomlinson

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 9

1994-1997 - AIMD Rota, Spain 1997-2001 - VP-10 Brunswick, Maine 2001-2004 - COMFAIRMED Naples, Italy 2004-2006 - USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN 76) San Diego, CA - Selected from AZC to Ensign (LDO 6330) 2006-2008 - VFA 101 Atsugi, Japan 2008-2010 - HS-10 San Diego, CA 2010-2013 - VRC-30 San Diego, CA 2013-2015 - HSM-41 San Diego, CA Current Assignment: (2016-Present) - VRC-30 DET FIVE Atsugi, Japan Experience: As an Aviation Maintenance Officer (6330) – Organizational Level

maintenance as a QAO, MCO, DIVO, MMCO, AMO, MO Hobbies: Enjoys camping, fishing, movies and collecting sports cards. Married with three children. Wife - Yumi, Daughter - Nicole (19), Son - Mark (11) and Son - Shawn (7).

Education: AA in general studies and BA in Organizational Management. Completed IA tour in with CTF-IA tracking all Navy IA(s) in the Iraq Theatre

Lieutenant Junior Grade Hamrick is a native of Wilmington, Delaware and a 1996 Graduate of Wilmington High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1995 under the Delayed Entry Program. Following graduation, he reported to Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, Illinois. Upon completion, he

received orders to the MARAUDERS of VFA-82 at Cecil Field, Florida. During his tour, he was promoted to Petty Officer Third Class in 1998 and Command Advanced to Petty Officer Second Class in December 1999. He completed two Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf deployments embarked on USS George Washington (CVN-73) and USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) in support of Operation Southern Watch. LTJG Hamrick’s next assignment was to Navy Marine Training Group Detachment, Naval Air Station Oceana. Upon completion of school in March 2001, he reported to Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Department, NAS Oceana where he served as a Gas Turbine Operations Instructor.

In November 2003 he separated from the Active Component and joined the Reserves. He reported to the FIGHTING ESCARGOTS of VAW-78 where he served as a power plant technician. Following the disestablishment of the squadron in 2005, he reported to the FIGHTING OMARs of VFC-12.

In 2008 he was promoted to Petty Officer First Class and in 2010 he was selected as Commander, Tactical Support Wing Sailor of the Year and promoted to Chief Petty Officer in 2011. In 2014 he was commissioned as a Limited Duty Officer and has served in various roles at VFC-12 to include Maintenance Material Control, Quality Assurance, and Maintenance Division Officer. In May of 2017 he was selected for redesignation to 1527 and in June 2017 was assigned to VR-64 at Joint Base McGuire, New Jersey.

LTJG Hamrick’s personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (two awards) and the Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards). Additionally, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He is married to the former Pamela Swain of Wilmington, DE. They reside in Virginia Beach, VA with their children Julia, James, Nadia, and Daniel.

Continued on pg. 10

LTJG James “Jim” Hamrick

Top: Army Private Tomlinson Bottom: A good reason for going FTS. Fear The Ship!

LT Tomlinson with his spouse Yumi

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 10

LTJG Gaito graduated from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a minor in Military Leadership.

He attended boot camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, IL in 2002 followed by AT(O) ‘A’ School in Pensacola, FL. He then reported to VF-101 located at NAS Oceana. While attached to VF-101, he was hand selected to assist VF-103 in preparation for their 2004 deployment. While there he achieved the rank of Third Class Petty Officer. He then reported to VC-6 located at Dam Neck Naval Base in 2005. While there, he achieved the rank of Second Class Petty Officer. In 2008, he reported

to VFA-32 located at NAS Oceana. While there, he was recognized as the 2009 Supervisor of the Year.

AT2 (AW) Gaito was selected for the FY2010 Seaman to Admiral-21 (STA-21) program. He then reported to Officer Training Command (OTC) Newport, RI to attend the Naval Science Institute (NSI) before reporting to Old Dominion University which led to his commission in 2014.

Ensign Gaito reported to Introductory Flight Screening (IFS) and the Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API) in Pensacola, FL in 2014. He then reported to Training Wing SIX at NAS Pensacola before being assigned to Training Squadron TEN (VT-10) Wildcats. While there he completed Primary Flight Training in 2015. In 2016, Ensign Gaito reported to Advanced Training Squadron EIGHT SIX (VT-86) the Sabrehawks.

In 2016, LTJG Gaito redesignated to the Full Time Support (FTS) AMDO community and was recognized in Aviation Maintenance Officer School as the Honor Graduate. He then reported to Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FIVE THREE where he currently serves as the Maintenance Material Control Officer.

Detailer’s Diary

Board Preparation Promotion board preparation should be an ongoing and continual thought process. All officers should periodically review their OSR/PSR and their Official Military Personnel File on BUPERS Online. Since data is gathered considerably in advance of the board, continuity of Fitness Reports, updated photos, and validating your certifications, subspecialties, and AQDs should be completed at least 60 days before the board convenes. Your record represents you and your accomplishments, so it’s in your best interest to ensure it is an accurate reflection of your performance. The NPC Website provides additional information. PAMO PQS Congratulations to LT Boudart and LCDR Michaelis for completing their PAMO PQS and board. They are now Professional Aerospace Maintenance Officer Qualified with an IL6 AQD.

Reserve AMDOs during the 2017 C-40 Maintenance Working Group in PAX River, MD. From left: CAPT(Sel) Osborne, LCDR Hart, LTJG Pond, LCDR Rajhel, LT Conrad, CDR Voigtlander,

LCDR Price-Jordan, LCDR Baxter, LT Brown, and LT Hagan.

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 11

JO JUNGLE

Tips and Strategies for earning the Professional

Aviation Maintenance Officer (PAMO) Qualification by LT Louis Boudart

Achieving the Professional Aviation Maintenance Officer Pin requires personal commitment, perseverance and desire. I began my military career as a Selected Reserve Maintenance Officer and began my PQS shortly after I was commissioned in 2009. It took me 8 years to complete the requirements due to my chosen career path. Normally it would take an Active Duty officer as few as 4 years to achieve this milestone. By the way the version of the PQS changed 3 times in those eight years so I had to restart more than once!

Even though I understood that the pin was not required for the Reserve AMDO community, I knew that I could gain valuable information by meeting with senior AMDO’s and learning the “trade”. For seven months I drove from Delaware to NAF Washington to sit in on a PAMO study group with the local FTS’s. Then in 2010, I was mobilized with HSC-84 and joined the study group with the local 1520’s at NAS Norfolk. In 2012, I redesignated as a 1527 and transferred to VP-62, NAS Jacksonville. At this point I took the initiative to form a study group. The study group atmosphere kept me motivated, helped to hone my skills as a Maintenance Officer, and continued my progression towards earning the PAMO

qualification. Working in a group setting also brought a variety of invaluable experiences and inputs. My current duty station, FRC-East DET JB MDL, helped me gain a better understanding of the relationship between O and I levels and supply.

My recommendation to my fellow JOs for achieving the PAMO qualification is to first get involved in study groups. Then do not stop participating in study groups after you get sign-offs or you may miss out on important learning and PAMO board preparation opportunities at during both O and I level tours. Second, get a copy of the study guide from the AMDO Association website and also a copy of the Supply Operation Manual. There is a lot of valuable information in both. I reviewed the material before every study group meeting and asked questions for clarification. Third, if you have completed the requirements and are just waiting on the board, schedule it and get it done! Don’t wait, life will always get in the way. Lastly, even after you have earned your PAMO qualification continue participating in study groups. It’s a way to help develop the next generation of Maintenance Officers and pay back those who took time to mentor you through your qualification process.

Navy RAM Note: LT Boudart is now leading the Bi-Weekly PAMO training TELCON at 1100 EST every other Friday. If you are interested in participating, contact him for dial-in information.

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Have you considered a NAVAIR Tour?

by LT Chad Wash

Up for orders?

If you stick around the AMDO community long enough, you’ll eventually hear the phrase, “All roads lead to Pax River”, or some semblance of it. Usually the recommendation to perform a NAVAIR tour comes from a mentor or from our detailer, and depending on your mindset, can be gleaned as a welcome opportunity, or a dreaded 3 year trudge through a cubicle farm. Regardless of your views on the subject, any flavor NAVAIR tour will not only help you with your professional Navy career, but also give you a good clue of what your post-military career might look like.

I think that most of the fear of a NAVAIR tour isn’t the idea of being stuck in an office setting, but rather the unknown. Before I took orders to Pax River, I only had a vague idea of what work was

CAPT Goff “pins” LT Boudart upon completion of the PAMO qualification

process.

LT Chad Wash

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 12

actually being performed there. I knew that it was where “the sausage was made” for Naval Aviation. I also knew that it was the source of a lot of pain at the squadron level as I sat waiting for a new Technical Directive to be released, or some other modification to our aircraft that was going to negatively affect our mission. That was about it though. The mixed viewpoints that I held, along with only a vague generalization of made me wary of committing to orders there.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

Professionally, NAVAIR can afford opportunities and experiences to us that no Fleet command can duplicate. Since each billet is acquisition coded, you will be able to complete your various DAU/DAWIA level certificates and continue to work toward acquisition membership. There is also continuous learning coursework in all aspects of acquisition and logistics offered for free at various learning centers located on or close to the base. This is an especially valuable opportunity considering the fiduciary confinements associated with non-essential TAD funded travel that we have all experienced in recent years.

Another plus of your tour will be that you’ll work with both government civilian and contractor employees, many who were once in our shoes as active duty aviation professionals. They bring with them a wealth of corporate knowledge from their civilian and military careers that can assist you with your acclimation to the NAVAIR world. And as I mentioned earlier, if you think your post-military career will involve any facet of aviation maintenance or logistics, Pax River is often referred to as the ‘AMDO Mecca’. That equates to having a ton of opportunities to make professional connections to help you get your foot in the door as either a government civilian or contractor position.

ABOUT THE WORK

If you have never completed a NAVAIR tour, you are in for a shock. Upon check-in to NAVAIR, you will be introduced to an Organizational Chart like no other you have ever experienced. There are so many cogs in the NAVAIR gears that you

can quickly confused at what you are supposed to do or where to go. The best advice is to ask as many questions to your assigned sponsor and to the other AMDO’s stationed with you. NAS Pax River has made strides this year to make the check-in process easier, but do not be afraid to reach out to your counterparts on base for assistance if you need to. Even though our fellow 1525/1527’s are strewn throughout the base, you will quickly see that they are a pretty tight knit group.

The work that you might be assigned to is quite varied in nature. You could be in charge of readiness for multiple Type/Model/Series aircraft, a Maintenance Engineer for emerging unmanned systems, or a Deputy Program Liaison for a logistician department, just to name a few. You might have just read those job titles and are still wondering what they might entail. My advice would be; if you see a position that sounds interesting to you, contact the person sitting in the seat. Chances are you probably already know them, and they will be glad to talk about their day to day work. No one else will be able to give you the details or scope of that position other than them.

Each position is so different that whatever billet you end up taking will offer the challenge of learning a new skillset that will enhance your future Navy career. The mixed environment of civilian and military personnel alone will help you hone those senior managerial skills and will prove useful as you move into more prominent FRC OIC or Wing MO positions as you progress in rank.

IS IT WORTH IT?

We’ve all heard it before; the job is what we make it. This certainly applies to NAVAIR. Is it right for you? Only you can make that decision. Many in our profession want to be the forever flight line bubba, working a NMCS/PMCS reports and a PMI schedules, and that’s fine. However, for those of you that are in this for the long haul, a tour at Pax River is a worthy set of tools for your seabag. The benefits certainly outweigh any perceived drawbacks that one might have, and if

you’ve ever wanted to really see the inner workings of the NAE and be part of the decision-making process, a NAVAIR tour is worth the look.

Standing Reading Board

FTS AMDO VISION

-Attract, train and develop professional Naval Officers who are experts in all facets of aviation related acquisition, sustainment, and readiness. -Sustain aviation assets to effectively support peacetime and surge readiness requirements at an affordable cost. -Maintain alignment to the Navy’s Aviation Reserve Forces within the NAE in order to represent current and future interests.

Profile of competitive LDO/CWO Candidates:

Sustained superior performance! • Consistent break-outs in evaluations (Always EP or moving to the right) • Successful in key leadership and technical positions • Continued education, personal and professional development • Equivalent civilian experience and expertise • Warfare qualified (where possible) • Challenging and diversified assignments • Active component support (IA/Mob, ADSW, ADT) • Culture of Fitness

Additional Resources: • NPC LDO/CWO website http://www.public.navy.mil/bupersnpc/ boards/administrative/ldo_cwo/Pages/default.aspx – NPC “LDO/CWO Community Page” (link under “Related Information”) • OPNAVINST 1420.1B (Enlisted to Officer Commissioning Programs Application Administrative Manual) – Chapters: 2, 7 Appendices: F, H – Follow OPNAVINST 1420.1B unless otherwise directed by annual NAVADMIN LDO/CWO Announcement or guidance on the NPC website

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 13

• OPNAVINST 1120.12 (LDO/CWO Programs Eligibility Checklist: Commands Appointment of Limited Duty Offices and Chief Warrant Officers for inactive duty in the Navy Reserve) • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ mustang.reserveldocwo

“New to the Navy” mobile app:

Looking for answers to common questions such as how to ship household goods or obtain ID cards for new dependents? There’s now an app for that complete with easy to understand topics, references, points of contact, and methods for avoiding mistakes. Available now in the Android and Apple application stores. Read more here: http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=92264

OFFICIAL OFFICER PHOTOGRAPH REQUIREMENT

NAVADMIN 186/16 eliminated the requirement to display the officer photograph during selection boards. However, the requirement to maintain an officer photograph in the official service record remains unchanged IAW MILPERSMAN Article 1070-180

Get Noticed! Send us pictures of RAMs in action (PAMO pinning, promotions, reenlistments, awards, etc.) or unit and event photos for inclusion in future editions of Navy RAM.

Navy Reserve Program (NRP)

NRP Mission To support NAVAIR and the warfighter with a mobilization-ready force of qualified acquisition professionals providing forward deployable capability

and expertise.

NRP Vision The Navy’s premiere program for innovation and expertise in the support of system development, acquisition, rapid deployment, and depot-level repair capabilities seamlessly aligned with our active duty counterparts, integral to the future of Naval Aviation, and essential to the Warfighter.

NRP Core Principles We draw on these values to guide all of our decisions and actions:

Emphasize Warfighting first!

Be where it matters, when it matters

NRP Strategy

Maintain the highest possible training and mobilization readiness

Provide focused efforts for Junior Officer development and DCO training/indoctrination

Identify and maintain a database of personnel skills

Identify capability and resource gaps and develop NRP solutions

Apply unit and individual strengths as well as differentiated talents to provide value to the warfighter

Serve as a Unified Team for a shared purpose

Establish trusting relationships,

both inside and outside the NRP

Above: FRCMA Det NOLA Sailors at work. Top: PO1 Johnson, PO2 Galindo, and PO2 Johnson work on a propeller. Center: AMCS Smith and PO1 Schultz review the BMT workload. Bottom: A Petty Officer works on support equipment.

FRCMA Det NOLA Sailors in

action.

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 14

Be a vital part of the future of Naval Aviation

Operate with the highest Integrity and utmost of Ethics

Be Agile, Responsive, and Adaptable

Maintain open and honest communications

Embrace diversity in recruiting and throughout mission execution

Leverage military skills and civilian skill-sets to meet future requirements

Think strategically Continue to adapt

Above: Token HSC-84 Red Wolf Mentions Top: Former Red Wolf ENS Millerchong with LCDR Baxter and ENS Agbam during their commissioning ceremony on May 12, 2017. Center: LCDR Baxter delivers remarks during commissioning ceremony. Bottom: Red Wolves on Det down range. Circa 2013.

NRP’s “Laser-focused” CMC Garlington

Above: LT Tomlinson reenlisting AEC Pradia Kamakura.

Above: LT Tomlinson with a C-2A in the background.

Above: VR-61 personnel gather for training.

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 15

Above: Photos from FRCE Det JB MDL Change of Charge

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 16

Reserve AMDOs at FRCE Det JB MDL Change of Charge. From left to right: LT Callaghan, LCDR Baxter, LCDR Keith, CDR Grillet, CDR Echevarria, CAPT Goff, LT Boudart, LCDR Price-Jordan, and LCDR Marino

YOUR PICTURE OR ARTICLE COULD BE HERE.

SEND ANY INPUTS TO: christopher.a.baxter@navy.mil

SAVE THE COMMUNITY FROM ADDITIONAL SPACE FILLER HSC-84 IMAGES.

FAILURE TO PROVIDE PICTURES OF YOUR SAILORS AND SQUADRON AIRCRAFT IS THE

CLEAREST SIGNAL THAT YOU LIKE COOL, DOORS-OFF, HELO PICTURES WITH A RED WOLF LOGO BETTER!

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 17

Check out the 1527 ‘at sea’ program!

LCDR Caleb Wilson has found his ‘sea legs’ and is fitting in quite well with the CVN 77 AIMD Maintenance Department.

Above: Passing through the Suez Canal

Left: About to pass under Freedom Bridge, Suez Canal.

NAVY RAM: RESERVE AVIATION MAINTAINER | Issue 4 18

Navy RAM: Reserve Aviation Maintainer

[Street Address] [City, ST ZIP Code]

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