Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 131 pulled out all the stops for its 44th Change of Command ceremony held last Friday at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Leadership changed hands from Cmdr. Thomas Huerter to Cmdr. Stephen Flaherty, as the men and women of VAQ-131 stood in formation at the back of Hangar 9.

Because of deployments and other duties and assignments, the Lancers of VAQ-131 had not had a full, formal Change of Command ceremony since November, 2007. Personnel wore dress whites and the ceremony opened with the sounds of the Bellingham Bagpipes.

Guest speaker for the event was Capt. Sterling Gilliam, commanding officer, Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps Unit at George Washington University, located in the nation’s capital.

“Today is a special day, away from the heat, humidity and political hot air of Washington, D.C.,” Gilliam said in his opening remarks. “It’s good to be surrounded by so many familiar faces. It’s most rewarding to be back in the VAQ community where I grew up.”

Gilliam had high praise for Huerter and his successor, saying they had hard jobs, but had done them well, improving the VAQ community and allowing it to thrive.

“Naval aviation is a team sport,” he said. “Tom Huerter is the consummate team player. It is impressive what this squadron has accomplished.”

Gilliam said both Huerter and Flaherty had managed to find the balance necessary in their professional and personal lives to make them successful.

“They are fine examples of teamwork and grace under pressure,” said Gilliam. “Thanks to these two, the ‘never say die spirit’ is alive and well in VAQ-131.”

The outgoing commander had high praise for his Lancer team.

“No man is an island,” Capt. Huerter said. “While  he may fail on his own, he never succeeds without the help of those he surrounds himself with. To my Lancer team — you have done yourselves exceptionally proud.”

Huerter thanked his parents for instilling him with the confidence to do whatever he wanted to do and had words of encouragement for the next Lancer commander.

“I am supremely confident this squadron will continue to succeed and accomplish every mission under your leadership,” said Huerter.

Flaherty also had words of thanks for his family, telling them and the audience that is was their support that has made his job easier. He also praised his outgoing commander.

“It is an honor and privilege to be your XO and your friend,” he said. “You are leaving this command in better shape.

“To the entire Lancer team, this job is pivotal to the success of our nation’s goals,” Flaherty continued. “I applaud you and am proud I have been given the honor to lead you.”