Cmdr. Courtney Smith relieved Cmdr. Richard Meadows as commanding officer of the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142 Gray Wolves at a change of command ceremony at NAS Whidbey Island Oct. 8. 

Meadows spent the past 14 months as commanding officer. During his tenure, the Gray Wolves deployed twice to Al Asad Air Base in Iraq.  They also completed a German Mission Employment (ME) Phase at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, and an Electronic Attack Weapons School (EAWS) ME Phase at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

“During my career I have had the privilege of working with a multitude of personnel in all different pay grades and from all different services,” Meadows said. “My tour as executive and commanding officer of VAQ-142 has been the most rewarding. The Sailors here have helped me grow both professionally and personally. I will miss this squadron tremendously.”

Meadows’ next tour will be with Navy Staff, Washington, D.C.

Smith, a graduate of the University of Texas, earned her NFO Wings of Gold in February 1990. She has flown numerous aircraft, accumulating over 2,700 hours and 500 carrier arrested landings.

Her tours include flying ES-3A Shadows with Tactical Air Reconnaissance Squadron Six (VQ-6), followed by her transition to the S-3B Vikings, serving with Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32 and VS-24. She then transitioned to the EA-6B Prowler and has been serving as the executive officer of VAQ-142 since July 2008.

“As the first female Prowler skipper I know a lot of eyes are on me,” said Smith. “The support I have received from both my family and the Prowler community has helped equip me with the tools necessary to successfully lead the Gray Wolves.”