The “Gauntlets” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 returned to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Aug. 6, for the first time
in 28 years, to participate in this year’s Electronic Attack Week. The Gauntlets are an operational fleet squadron that flies the
EA-6B Prowler and are forward deployed at Naval Air Station Atsugi, Japan.
“Electronic Attack Week used to be called ‘Prowler Week,’ but that all changed with the arrival of the Growler,” said Lt. Karrie
Koski. “Electronic Attack Week is just a way for different electronic warfare squadrons to come together and help strengthen
our community.”
Some of the events that will occur throughout the week include a golf tournament among squadrons, a barbeque cookout,
and a Prowler Ball at Hangar 4.
“This is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for VAQ-136 to be back here in Whidbey and be able to participate in the
festivities after being away for so long,” said Lt. Cmdr. Ken Hansen.
According to Cmdr. Joel Jungemann, Commanding Officer of VAQ-136, being back in NAS Whidbey Island is also a great opportunity
to showcase what the Gauntlets have to offer.
“It’s good to show to some of the younger guys in other squadrons, that have never been forward-deployed before, who we are
and what where capable of,” said Jungemann. “Electronic Attack Week is all about the electronic warfare community interacting with
each other, but this is the first time we (VAQ 136) got to participate. It is a great honor for us.
For some squadron members like Lt. Hunter Bankart, being back at NAS Whidbey Island is a chance to spend time with family and
friends who live in the area.
“Just being able to see my wife, who is pregnant, and enjoy some time with friends who live in the great Northwest makes me very
happy and extremely lucky,” said Bankart.
“When my husband told me he was coming back here it was a very nice and unexpected surprise,” said Becky Bankart. “I’m just so
grateful and relieved he gets to be here for our first ultrasound. It truly is a blessing.”