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Strike Fighter Squadron 15 Changes Command Aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081110-01
Release Date: 11/10/2008 5:06:00 AM

By Lt. Nate Michael, Strike Fighter Squadron 15 Public Affairs

USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, At sea (NNS) -- Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15 held a change-of-command ceremony at sea Oct. 25 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71).

Cmdr. Fredrick R. Luchtman relieved Cmdr. Keith W. Hoskins as commanding officer of VFA 15.

VFA 15 is currently deployed with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

The handover occurred during an airborne ceremonial formation in two of the squadron's F/A-18C Hornets. As the formation flew overhead the ship, Hoskins passed Luchtman the lead and the new commanding officer sped to the front. Hoskins climbed skyward to symbolize his departure. Cmdr. Luchtman then made a solo pass dipping a wing in salute to the Sailors of VFA 15.

A change of command quarters was held Oct. 24 which featured Capt. Kevin J. Kovacich, commander CVW 8 as guest speaker.

Hoskins received the Meritorious Service Medal for his distinguished accomplishments while serving as commanding officer of VFA 15. During his tenure, he was responsible for more than 250 Sailors and 20 officers. Some say he "led from the front" with a contagious passion and blazed the trail for VFA 15 to make incredible advancements toward a high degree of combat readiness. Hoskins reports to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and assumes the duties of battalion officer upon his detachment from VFA 15.

Luchtman assumes command following a tour as the squadron's executive officer. Luchtman is a native of Auburn Hills, Mich., and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1989. He earned his wings of gold at Naval Air Station Beeville, Texas, in December 1990. Luchtman's service includes tours with VFA 106; VFA 82; Strike Fighter Weapons School, Atlantic; VFA 136; and VFA 131. In addition, Luchtman earned a masters of arts degree from the Naval War College and served with the United States Strategic Command prior to reporting to VFA 15. Luchtman has logged more than 3430 flight hours and 670 carrier arrested landings. Luchtman's personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with Combat V, Strike Flight Air Medal (3 awards), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (4 awards) and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 awards).

For more news from USS Theodore Roosevelt, visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn71/.