Electronic Attack Squadron VAQ-132 “Scorpions” held a change of command on July 14 at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

During the ceremony, Cmdr. David F. Harris relieved Cmdr. Bob Holmes as the squadron’s commanding officer. Both are Anacortes residents.

Rear Admiral Ross Myers of Carrier Strike Group Fifteen was the guest speaker. Holmes reported to VAQ-132 as the executive officer in February of 2014 and assumed command of the Scorpions in May 2015. During Holmes’ tenure, the Scorpions deployed twice to the Western Pacific and earned the back-to-back Commander, Naval Air Forces Battle Efficiency “E,” Chief of Naval Operations Safety “S,” Retention Excellence and Medical Blue “M” awards.

Regarding the successful turn of the helm, Harris said, “I am humbled at the opportunity to serve the Scorpions of VAQ-132 as their commanding officer. It is an incredible group of patriotic men and women.”

Holmes said, “It was an awesome privilege to return to the Scorpions as the commanding officer after having previously served as a junior officer between 1999-2002. The Scorpions set the standard back then and have carried that tradition through. Our people are our most important asset and we have excelled at every task. Outstanding excellence, professionalism, adherence to standards, motivation and off-duty conduct is evident in everything we’ve accomplished. This is America’s “A-Team” and the one you want to be a part of.  I’m very proud to have had this opportunity to lead the Scorps and will fondly remember our time together.”

He also said that he’s grateful for the Anacortes community’s hospitality, outstanding school district support, the friendships he and his family have built and for the local business hospitality to VAQ-132 officers and sailors.