ounded shortly after the United States emerged victorious from World War

II, the “Black Knights” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154 have participated in every major conflict since their inception. With a legacy forged in the line of fire and a nickname that harkens back to a tradition of defending and protecting their society, the “Black Knights” now operate on the front lines of history as part of Carrier Air Wing 11.

“I’m not going to lie and say

Fit’s something that weighs on us all day, every day, but we definitely keep an eye to our history and are proud of it,” said Cmdr. James Christie, commanding officer of VFA-154. “When there are times to be reflective we try to tie it all together and remind ourselves that we have a squadron with one of the longest histories.”

The Black Knights have many present accomplishments to take pride in, as well.

“There are unit awards and individual accomplishments that

are truly remarkable,” said Christie. “We’ve been able to advance a large percentage of our squadron, and we’ve had a few Sailors picked up for officer packages. Beyond that, we were the last Top Hook winner for the Air Wing, which is a testament to the whole squadron’s professionalism. We have the CNAP (Command Naval Air Forces Pacific) ‘Boola Boola’ award for excellence in air-to-air employment. Outside of that, I’m proud of our people. We try to foster a very teamwork-

- Continued on page 3 -

June 29, 2013 Vol. 2 Issue 53

Story by MC3 (SW) Nathan McDonald

Introducing the Black Knights of VFA-154- Courtesy Photo -

Editor

MC2 (SW) Jason Behnke

Lead Designer

MC3 (SW) George J. Penney III

Nimitz News accepts submissions in writing. All submissions are subject to review and screening. ”Nimitz News” is an authorized publication for the members of the military services and their families. Its content does not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy, or the Marine Corps and does not imply endorsement thereby.

Public Affairs Officer

LCDR Karin Burzynski

Commanding Officer

CAPT Jeff Ruth

Executive Officer

CDR John Cummings

Command Master Chief

CMDCM Teri McIntyre

Sailor of the Day

Aviation Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Lawrence D. Loyd of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11, a native of New Orleans, was named USS Nimitz’ (CVN 68) Sailor of the Day June 28.

“It feels kind of weird to be named Sailor of the Day,” said Loyd.

Loyd joined the Navy in 2008. After being a guitar player in a band for a few years, he wanted to try something new.

Loyd’s expertise was essential during an extremely demanding flight schedule supporting crucial aircraft refueling missions.

He displayed exceptional initiative and was directly responsible for the removal and

replacement of three hose assemblies, five major hydraulic sub-system components, four fuel component systems, 11 hydraulic system air bleeds along with completing 13 daily inspections.

Loyd’s efforts contributed to a 95 percent full mission capable status for 12 aerial refueling stores, despite 167 unscheduled maintenance actions, 45 downing discrepencies and 56 scheduled inspections.

Additionally, as a direct result of his dedication to Nimitz’ mission, six tanker configured aircraft successfully transferred more than 160,000 gallons of fuel in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

During his off time while out to sea, Loyd enjoys studying electrical engineering.

Story by MC3 Linda S. SwearingenPhoto by MCSA Kelly M. Agee

2

oriented, family atmosphere and that resonates with the crew and carries us through all of the challenges.”

The atmosphere Christie has worked to create is felt throughout the ranks of the squadron, including Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Derrick Hooker.

“We have a strong, family-oriented environment and really good morale,” said Hooker. “We all look out for each other and we all have each other’s back. It’s cool to be a part of this. We’re the best of the best.”

Since the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) entered the 5th Fleet area of responsibility, the “Black Knights’” mission has shifted focus. When Christie speaks about the squadron’s responsibilities, his words become more measured with the gravity of the subject matter.

“Right now we’re flying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom,” said Christie. “We’re sending jets over Afghanistan for armed over watch – essentially orbiting over our troops on the ground, providing sensors for getting the tactical lay of the land and then employing ordnance if the situation dictates. That’s the most important mission we’re doing now.”

It’s clear that the members of VFA-154 put a measure of pride into their work, and mission

- Continued from page 1 -

accomplishment is the underlying bedrock of what is expected of them.

“As a power plant technician we may have to drop a generator in 30 minutes in order to get the aircraft back out there,” said Hooker. “We may need to

swap an engine out on the go so our aircraft can help out our troops on the ground. There is no such thing as partial mission accomplishment. You’re either up or you’re down.”

For Christie, the idea of training how you fight is more than a mere phrase – it is part of VFA-154’s people-first philosophy.

“First of all, we try very hard to make our training as realistic as possible within the realm of safe operations,” said Christie. “As we approach combat operations, our training officers developed a comprehensive training plan and briefs so that our guys on their first deployment are as prepared as possible going into combat.”

It is this culture that has helped sustain the spirit of excellence the “Black Knights” strive for at every step in the chain of command.

“Of course I’m proud to be a ‘Black Knight’,” said Hooker. “Everyone in the command comes ready to work. Everyone wants to step up and do their part and that motivates you to want to do the same.”

This has not gone unnoticed by Christie, who beams with pride when he reflects about his time as a “Black Knight.”

“The biggest thing I’d like to express is my sincere appreciation to the entire ‘Black Knight’ team for making this a truly successful combat deployment and my most rewarding tour,” said Christie. “I really do treasure all of my Sailors and ‘Black Knights.’ They’re tremendous people who have made this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

AD3 Derrick Hooker poses for a photo in the hangar bay.- Photo by MC3 (SW) Nathan McDonald

Cmdr. James Christie, commanding officer of VFA-154, poses next to a suit of armor in ready room 8. - Photo by MC3 (SW) Nathan McDonald

3

In Focus

In America, there are opportunities everywhere that its citizens might take for granted. America presents opportunities great enough to provide

a reason for people from other countries to join its military so they may become a citizen. Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Paramita Das, originally from Kolkata, India, firmly believes in this.

“In America, whatever class you are you have lots of opportunities, but in India only the upper two caste out of the four are presented with good opportunities,” said Das. “Now there are more opportunities for all the caste with the help of education, but still if you are born into that caste you are looked down on.”

Das moved from Kolkata to Los Angeles in 2008 on a working visa that was sponsored by IBM in India. She continued her career at IBM in LA for two years before herself and more than 100 others were laid off. Three weeks later Das enlisted in the Navy.

“I moved to America to get better pay and a better life,” said Das. “Everyone in India wants to move to the U.S. to have a better life.”

Das said she chose the Navy over the other branches because she likes the sea. She doesn’t think she would have joined any other branch.

“I could have joined the Indian navy, but I chose the U.S. Navy,” said Das. “I wanted to see how other countries differed from India, and I would also get U.S. citizenship this way.”

Das has enjoyed seeing the Republic of

Korea and Thailand and seeing the differences, and similarities, they share with her native country. She plans to make a career out of the Navy so she can support her family and travel to even more places.

Growing up in India, Das saw how hard it was for those born into lower caste to succeed economically.

“Wages are far higher in America,” said Das. “Even the jobs that pay low, pay a lot more than in India.”

Das is fluent in three languages; Bengali, Hindi and English. She is also learning Spanish, now that she is married to a Latino man whom she met when she was stationed in Japan. Even though Das’ family is Hindu, she attended a convent school to receive a better education.

“My mother tongue is Bengali, and the national language is Hindi,” said Das. “I studied English in convent school. They teach us to live together as brothers and sisters.”

In addition to these lessons, Das maintains a positive outlook on opportunity in America.

“I believe that anyone can make it in America, if they try hard enough,” said Das.

FINDINGA NEW HOME

In America and the Navy

- Story and Photo by MCSA Aiyana Paschal -

4

LS3 Paramita Das

HAVE YOU EVER BOUNCED A CHECK? Most of us have at one time or another. We may have forgotten to record an ATM transaction or a purchase at the grocery store with our check (debit) cards. Transferring money from your bank or credit union account to your Navy Cash account at the K80 Cashless ATM is just like writing a check. The electronic fund transfer from your account will usually occur within 24 hours, which in most circumstances

is much faster than a check is normally processed. Do not transfer money to your Navy Cash account at the Cashless ATM unless there are sufficient funds available in your bank or credit union account. If the electronic fund transfer cannot be completed because of Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF), your bank or credit union may charge you a balance in your Navy Cash account before you will be able to access your personal account for further transactions.

ON TOP OF THE FEES CHARGED by your bank, the Disbursing office has Navy Cash Internal Operating Procedures and Controls (NIMITZINST 7220.2) for handling these types of transactions. For the first NSF offense of $249.99 or less, your privileges to transfer money to your card will be suspended for 30 days after it is paid in full. The

second offense or any NSF of $250.00 to $499.99 will result in suspension for 6-months. To reinstate these privileges, it will require a written counseling from the command financial specialist (CFS) and a request chit for reinstatement signed by the division officer. Third offense or balance greater than $500.00 will result in permanent suspension of transfer capabilities.

EACH TIME YOUR ACCOUNT GOES NEGATIVE, this represents a debt against the government and will be collected as such. In order to not affect your credit scores or put your security clearance in jeopardy, make sure to watch your account

balances on both your personal accounts and Navy Cash card. To access your Navy Cash account online, log on to www.navycashcenter.com, if you are not able to access your account, contact Disbursing during their customer service hours for assistance.

AMESSAGEDISBURSING

FROM

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Through the Lens

PR1 Galo Juradotapia weighs an oxygen tank.- Photo by MCSA Andrew W. Price

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) completes a turn in the Gulf of Oman.- Photo by MC3 (SW) Nathan McDonald

ADAN Michael Lainhart walks with chains on the flight deck.- Photo by MC3 Chris Bartlett

AS2 Jesus Mendoza (right) performs maintenance of the starter circuit of a P-25 fire truck with the assistance of AS3 Adam Maloney.- Photo by MC3 Derek W. Volland

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