By LT. COREY JONES

The Rooks of Electronic Attack Squadron 137 were recently certified “Safe for Flight” in the EA-18G Growler. The certification, awarded in September, is the culmination of nine months of training in the Navy’s newest electronic attack aircraft.

The transition began when the Rooks flew their last EA-6B Prowler from NAS Whidbey Island to NAS Jacksonville, Fla., last December. In January, the training began in earnest, with personnel splitting their training between VFA-106 in NAS Oceana, Va., VFA-122 in Lemoore, Calif., and locally at VAQ-129.

The syllabus at VAQ-129 reflects the improved capabilities of the Growler. The training included events that were both familiar and new to previous Prowler aircrews. In addition to various electronic attack missions, the training included all weather intercepts, fighter weapons tactics and basic fighter maneuvering. The crews also trained on employing the AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile.

During the transition, the maintenance department had two major inspections, the Conventional Weapons Technical Proficiency Inspection and Electronic Attack Wing’s Maintenance Program Assist. The Rooks excelled at both inspections.  The weapons training primarily tested the squadron’s ability to correctly handle the Growler’s weapon systems, including AIM-120 AMRAAM, AGM-88 HARM and ALQ-99 Jamming Pods.

The Rooks scored an outstanding 167.5 out of 170 on the inspection. The MPA inspection was the final exam for maintenance and again the Rooks showed their exemplary skills and teamwork.

“If we look at what this squadron has accomplished during this transitional period, I can say with the utmost confidence that this Rook team has surpassed all expectations and set a whole new standard,” said Ensign Jonathon McGaha, the Rooks’ Maintenance Material Control Officer. “I am extremely proud to be a Rook.”

To celebrate the designation, the squadron hosted a picnic on Friday, Sept. 20 that included representatives from CVWP, VAQ-129, and Boeing. Capt John P. Springett, Commodore, Electronic Attack Wing Pacific, congratulated the Rooks for their hard work.

Boeing presented the Rooks with a flag and aircraft model of a Growler painted with a Rook paint scheme. And to the delight of all attendees, Chief Aviation Machinist’s Mate Ryan Grabner provided a beef brisket that was easily a crowd favorite.

The “Safe for Flight” designation is the first step in a long road for the Rooks. Their next deployment is scheduled for early 2015.