The Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 took the magic out to sea as part of the final stages of pre-deployment workups onboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), completing both Composite Training Unit and Joint Task Force Exercise (COMPTUEX/JTFEX). This underway period completed the first set of carrier workups in which the squadron has participated in over 19 years, as it was previously an expeditionary asset.
Shipboard life has been a new and exciting experience for the squadron’s maintainers and ground personnel. Learning to operate in such a dynamic environment, from a much smaller space and often with very strict time constraints, would seem to be a very tough transition to make; however, the maintenance and support personnel across the board have not only met the bar, but far surpassed it, keeping the squadron operating without difficulty.
Many challenges face each air wing during COMPTUEX and JTFEX. Missions become more complicated with more planes in the air and more sophisticated threats on the ground. At the same time, expectations continue to grow.
“I never thought I would learn so much so quickly, said Lt. Matthew “Sugar Britches” Bezold, a relatively new (to the squadron) electronic countermeasures officer. “This environment, being surrounded by professionals, makes me want to work harder to improve because I don’t want to let the team down.”
This motivation was felt throughout the command, as well as Carrier Air Wing Nine as a whole, which rose to meet every challenge placed before it.
One of the most demanding parts of any COMPTUEX is the Blue Water Certification the air wing must achieve. During this period, the air wing and flight deck personnel have to demonstrate a sufficient ability to work together and get aircraft aboard with minimal bolters or wave-offs. The Wizards managed to accomplish a 100-percent combat boarding rate for the evaluation, a feat rarely seen even among the most experienced Prowler boat squadrons.
From smaller quarters and longer hours to tougher missions and higher expectations, the Wizards of VAQ-133 have once again proven their ability to adapt and overcome. The squadron is looking forward to the opportunity to demonstrate its work ethic and tactical prowess on its upcoming deployment, and its members are excited to finally be back where they began.
