Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 62 (VR-62)
NOR'EASTERS
"NOMADS"
The mission of VR-62 is to provide rapid response, global air logistics and support to U.S. Maritime Forces.
Fleet Logistics Support Squadron Six Two (VR-62) was established July 1, 1985 at NAF Detroit under the operational control of Commander, Fleet Logistics Support Wing. In February of 1988, the squadron began providing logistics support flights operating the McDonnell Douglas C-9B "Skytrain II" aircraft.
Following nine years of outstanding airlift service to the fleet and with the closing of NAF Detroit, the VR-62 MOTOWNERS were ordered to change their homeport. This move also included a transition to the newly acquired C-130T "Hercules" aircraft. On April 1, 1994, VR-62 officially changed its homeport to NAS South Weymouth, Massachusetts, and was renamed MASS TRANSPORT.
The squadron received their first of four C-130T aircraft in January of 1995. Following several months of rigorous training, VR-62 began its operational commitments, sending detachments to Sicily, Japan and Bahrain in support of worldwide Naval Operations.
From the beginning of hostilities in the former Republic of Yugoslavia onwards, U.S. Naval Air Reservists worked to keep the Navy's Carrier Battle Group and Amphibious Ready Group supplied with ordnance and critical supplies. Fleet Logistics Support (VR) crews and aircraft -- who provide 100% of the Navy's organic intra-theater airlift support -- responded on short notice to meet emerging needs of Fleet operations. VR crews maintained a continuous presence in the Med for several years with three aircraft [two C-9Bs and one C-130T deployed to Sigonella, Italy] in support of Commander Fleet Air, Mediterranean.
On June 1, 1996, due to the closure of NAS South Weymouth, VR-62 relocated to NAS Brunswick, ME and were renamed the NOR'EASTERS.
In March 1999 COMFAIRMED requested additional C-130T support for Operation Allied Force. Squadrons VR-55 and VR-62 each deployed an additional C-130T aircraft and crews to the Mediterranean.
During the more than 13 years at NAS Brunswick, the NOR'EASTERS continued their unprecedented support of Naval and Marine Corps operations around the world. The NOR'EASTERS have been involved in the support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
With the BRAC commission's decision to close NAS Brunswick, the NOR'EASTERS again found themselves on the move. On 1 September 2009, VR-62 relocated to NAS Jacksonville, Florida. As a historical testament to the squadron's home stations, and the dedicated personnel who have manned the squadron since 1985, the command has been renamed the VR-62 NOMADS.
Throughout its long history and proud accomplishments, VR-62 remains an integral part of fleet support to the US Navy and Marine Corps team. To date, the command has safely transported in excess of 40,000 passengers and over 40.2 million pounds of cargo since receiving the C-130T aircraft.
Squadron awards include: The Noel Davis Battle "E" 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2008; The James M. Holcombe Maintenance Excellence Award 1996, 1997, 2003; Secretary of the Navy Letter of Commendation 1996; Chief of Naval Operations Safety "S" 1997, 1999, 2008, 2009; the Fleet Logistics Support Wing Training Excellence Award 1997, 1999; the Excellence in Career Information Program Management Award 1999; the Navy Unit Commendation Medal 1999 for support to Joint Task Force Noble Anvil; ADM Phil Smith Operational Excellence Award 1999, 2000, 2006; the Fleet Logistics Support Wing Administrative Excellence Award 2000, the Golden Anchor for Retention Excellence Award 2008, 2009 and the 2007 and 2008 NAS Brunswick Captain's Cup Awards.
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
