Patrol Squadron 5 Completes Surge
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS060919-15
Release Date: 9/19/2006 5:02:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Harry J. Rucker III, Patrol Squadron 5 Public Affairs
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The “Mad Foxes” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 5, based out of Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Fla., finished a successful “surge” that lasted from June 1 to Aug. 30.
Six combat air crews (CAC) from VP-5 departed NAS Jacksonville and traveled across the Pacific to Misawa Air Force base and Kadena Air Force Base in Japan, as well as Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. CACs 6, 8, and 11 went from June 1 to Aug. 4, while CACs 1, 2 and 4 where overseas from July 31 to Aug. 30.
Combined, the air crews flew more than 350 hours in support of VP-46 and VP-9, who are currently forward deployed.
While overseas, the Mad Foxes helped fight the war on terrorism by providing support for Operation Enduring Freedom in the Philippines.
During Operation Valiant Shield, two VP-5 air crews had the unique experience of flying missions from the island of Iwo Jima, where more than 6,000 U.S. troops and more than 20,000 Japanese troops lost their lives in a battle for the small island during WWII. In addition, the Mad Foxes participated in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), which involved a VP-5 crew flying support missions with the Indonesian navy from Surabaya, Indonesia. Crews also visited a detachment sight in Utapao, Thailand.
“VP-5 did a fantastic job adjusting to an area of responsibility where they do not usually deploy and (also) helping Commander Task Force 72 accomplish its mission,” Lt. j.g. Richard Parella said.
All air crews involved believed that their time overseas provided valuable training and real-world experience.
“Surge gave everyone the opportunity to put their training into action," said Lt. Brian Fichter, "and I couldn’t be happier with the results.”
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