The Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, who have been deployed onboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) since July, recently concluded four months of combat operations in the Central Command (CENTCOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR).
The USS John C. Stennis and Carrier Air Wing 9 (CVW-9) were supporting Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF) and New Dawn (OND).
During this time VAQ-133 had the privilege of supporting convoy operations during the drawdown of forces in Iraq to ensure a safe and successful completion of OND. For many seasoned Wizards, Iraq has been the focus of virtually every deployment and being a part of the final days was more than just another mission — it was a point of pride.
After the conclusion of OND missions, the Stennis pulled into Dubai, United Arab Emirates for a relaxing and festive holiday port call. Although away from home on Christmas, the break gave sailors a chance to contact friends and family, as well as time away from the carrier to enjoy the holiday.
This was the second visit to Dubai for the Wizards, and was extremely well deserved. Sailors had the opportunity to simply relax and enjoy the culture or sign-up for a particular attraction they might have missed during the first port visit.
Just prior to the port call, VAQ-133 held a holiday quarters, during which AE1(AW) Sean Vestal and AT2(AW) Paul Chvala were meritoriously promoted through the Command Advancement Program (CAP). CAP allows the command to promote two deserving sailors each year. Following the quarters, the squadron had an extremely successful mystery box auction to raise funds for the Family Readiness Group.
With operations in the North Arabian Gulf complete, the Wizards still had more work to do after their Dubai port call. The Stennis once again returned to the Gulf of Oman to provide support for OEF.
While this return to a previously-supported operation may breed complacency in some, the Wizard team continued to perform and execute their missions with professionalism and focused dedication.
The final three weeks of operations in the CENTCOM AOR allowed VAQ-133 to demonstrate one final time what a valuable asset it is to the Air Wing.
The Wizards are now looking ahead to the transit home with plans on the horizon to host a Tiger Cruise during the final portion of their deployment. Tiger Cruise is an opportunity for Sailors to bring a family member or friend aboard for several days and experience a brief taste of life on a Naval warship.
Many members of VAQ-133 plan on participating and everyone expects Tiger Cruise to be a huge success.
Regardless, one fact remains: The Wizards are headed home!
