VAW-123 Hold Change of Command Aboard Big E
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS060706-02
Release Date: 7/6/2006 9:05:00 AM
By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class (SW) Hendrick L. Dickson, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
USS ENTERPRISE, At sea (NNS) -- Cmdr. Terry S. Morris relieved Cmdr. Matthew W. Danehy as commanding officer (CO) of the “Screwtops” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123 during a change of command ceremony held in the hangar bay aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) July 4.
The ceremony took place under direction of Capt. Gregory M. Nosal, commander, Carrier Air Wing 1. Rear Adm. Ray Spicer, commander, Enterprise Strike Group, was the guest speaker. More than 300 guests and Sailors were present to welcome Morris as the new leader of the Screwtops.
During his final address as commanding officer, Danehy praised the squadron for the job they have done during his time.
“Each and every one of you has made a difference in the fight this country is engaged in the war on terrorism,” said Danehy. “You’ve made the success we’re having possible. All I can say is, ‘Screwtops, well done!’”
Danehy also expressed confidence that Morris, who has served as Screwtops executive officer since May 2005, will continue to lead the squadron successfully.
“Screwtops, it’s simply taking a step,” continued Danehy. “While I depart, I’m confident you are well prepared to continue. You will be led by one of the finest men I’ve ever met. Cmdr. Morris is a gentleman who will lead this squadron to greater heights.”
Danehy will continue his Navy career at the Student Industrial College of the Armed Forces, in Washington D.C.
As Morris addressed his squadron for the first time, he reflected on the time he served as Screwtops executive officer under Danehy’s leadership.
“It has been an incredible ride at this point as your executive officer,” said Morris. “As next in command, I want to go out of my way to pay special tribute to Skipper Danehy. He has been a formidable skipper of character. Any incoming CO would be foolish to ignore the work he has done.”
“CAG (air wing commander), I want to give you my solemn promise that I will do my best to help us do what ever is required,” continued Morris. “Whether we stand in times of war or in direct response to natural disasters, or on routine training. We will respond and we will be ready.”
Morris holds a bachelor’s of science degree in mathematics from Florida A&M University and a master’s of science degree in operations management from the University of Arkansas.
His personal awards include the Strike Flight Air Medal (two), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two) and various unit citations and campaign awards.
VAW-123’s mission is to execute the commander’s intent
by providing on-scene, carrier airborne command and control of joint and combined forces in the battle space.
For related news, visit the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn65/.
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