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'Pelicans' Come in for Landing at Diego Garcia

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS191213-13
Release Date: 12/13/2019 1:19:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jillian F. Grady, U.S. Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia Public Affairs

DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (NNS) -- A U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft detachment from Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 "Pelicans," visited U.S. Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia from Dec. 1 to Dec. 3.

"VP-45 was thrilled to operate out of the Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia," said officer-in-charge Lt. Jason Cuellar. "Not only is it the footprint of freedom, but it is a professional airfield that ensured VP-45's success during our short two-day stay."

While on Diego Garcia, Cuellar met with Diego Garcia's commanding officer, Capt. Blake Tornga. The 20 personnel detachment from VP-45 made up of nine aircrewmen and 11 maintainers based out of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, were able to see just a little of what Sailors stationed on Diego Garcia get to experience.

"It's been really great here," said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Lake Miller of the squadron's quick stop to the Diego Garcia. "Wherever we're at, we're just going to try and fulfill our primary mission."

"Most of the individuals that were onboard will more than likely not return, making this a truly once in a lifetime experience," Cuellar said. "Everyone was awestruck by the island's beauty and pristine condition."

The P-8A Poseidon (P-8A) is the U.S. Navy's multi-mission maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. The P-8A efficiently conducts anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and humanitarian response.