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NAS Whidbey Island Welcomes Back VAQ-134

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070731-08
Release Date: 7/31/2007 11:23:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Northwest

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 134 “Garudas” returned home to Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island on July 30.

VAQ-134 was deployed for approximately 186 days in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, working 12-hour shifts the entire time.

“It was a good tour,” said Chief Damage Controlman (AW/SW) James Rauch. “We flew every day and it was hard work, but everyone came back in one piece so it was a successful mission.”

The squadron logged about 2,000 hours of flight time in support of the ground forces in direct combat.

“It was our first operational deployment of our low band transmitter and our ICAP II Block 3 aircraft,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Chism. “We gave successful support to the main ground force of 82nd Airborne and the International Security Assistant Force (ISAF).”

The low band transmitter is used by EA-6B aircraft to jam enemy communications and protect friendly forces.

Lt. Cmdr. Dave Slayton, present to welcome home the Sailors said, “it’s always great to welcome people home from this is outstanding command,” said Slayton. “The turnout this morning is really a tribute to the fellowship and camaraderie of this command.”

The “Garudas” arrived in Whidbey Island at 4 am, but more than 100 friends and family members still showed up to give their Sailors a warm welcome.

“This is a great reception even though it was really early in the morning,” said Cmdr. Randy Lynch, VAQ 134, commanding officer. “It’s such a great turnout and it’s good to be here.”

For their efforts and mission accomplishment VAQ-134 was given 48 hours of liberty to be home with their families.

“It’s nice to come home and see the kids all grown up,” said Chism. “I’m really glad to be back with my family and plan to spend as much time with them as I can.”