By Lt. John Hamilton
VAQ-138 reporter
Over the skies of Northern Japan, Electronic Attack Squadron 138 (VAQ-138) performed an in-flight change of command on October 31 with Cmdr. Douglas Graber relieving Cmdr. Matthew Cutter as the Yellow Jackets’ commanding officer. Capt. Darryl Walker, Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet, presided over the event.
A U.S. Navy change of command is a special tradition with a long and rich history, and is without an equivalent counterpart in other services. This procedure was designated to ensure that only authorized officers held command and that all aboard the ship were aware of its authenticity.
During the change of command flight, Cutter led the light division, consisting of three E/A-18G Growlers, out to the local operating area. Once established, Cutter executed a lead change and passed control of the formation to his relief, Graber. This simple ritual signifies the transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability of command.
Graber then led the division back over Misawa Air Base for a flyover with Walker in the number two position and Cutter in the number three position. Squadron personnel stood in formation along the flight line to observe this special occasion. Cutter’s relief was signified by his break away from the formation over the field.
“I feel lucky to take over while operating forward and with such a great squadron,” said Graber. “I look forward to sustaining the success of the Yellow Jackets by never forgetting the work and commitment it took to get us here.”
Graber is a native of South Bound Brook, N.J., and graduated in 1996 from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering. His first fleet tour was with the VAQ-136 Gauntlets. He made multiple deployments aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, including planning and flying in the opening “shock & awe” sorties of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His other assignments included an instructor tour at the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center, a Training Officer tour with VAQ-133, a Department Head tour with VAQ-131, and an assignment to the Pentagon as a part of Chief of Naval Operations staff.
Graber’s awards include an Individual Air Medal (with Combat “V” distinction), seven Strike/Flight Air Medals, Navy Commendation Medals, Navy Achievement Medals, as well as a variety of other campaign ribbons and medals.
The Yellow Jackets are a Navy Expeditionary Airborne Electronic Attack Squadron currently deployed to Misawa Air Base, Japan in the Pacific Command Area of Responsibility. Having an electronic attack presence in the 7th Fleet Theater serves as deterrence to potential adversaries abroad, and reassures allies and partner nations in the region of the U.S. commitment to their defense.
