The Cougars of VAQ-139 were awarded the 2010 Battle ‘E’ for West Coast Prowler squadrons earlier this month. 

“It was a great year for the squadron and the air wing and it is an honor to be recognized as a team,” said Cmdr. Chris Middleton, VAQ-139 commanding officer. The unit was deployed or detached more often last year than in the previous deployment year.

“I believe the Battle ‘E’ is the ultimate teamwork award,” said Middleton. “In a year where so many units were deployed or detached and in a year where so many performed so well, it is a humble experience to be named.” 

The accomplishments of the year included RIMPAC on board USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) as well as Air Wing Fallon, under way periods for workups and detachments to Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.; and China Lake and Lemoore, Calif. 

The message traffic from Commander, Naval Air Forces read, “As leaders in combat readiness, tactical employment and strike group interoperability, you have set the highest standards of excellence.” 

The ship and Air Wing 14 team lives a level of excellence everyday that results in safe and effective operations. 

“The ship and Air Wing, as well as the support from NAS Whidbey Island and the VAQ Type Wing, are the reasons for our sortie completion rate, boarding rate and improvements in maintenance production and practices this year,” said Middleton. “Also, the strength gained from family support remains a foundation for squadron performance.”

The Cougars are honored to be recognized after a busy and productive year. The squadron is currently on a combat deployment.