VR-61 was recently awarded the CNO’s top safety award for outstanding safety during 2004.

The squadron operates a fleet of five C-9 and DC-9 aircraft to support global airlift requirements. In 2004, VR-61 carried over 16,000 passengers and one million pounds of cargo, making it the backbone of naval air logistics.

This is the seventh Safety ‘S’ award in 11 years for VR-61 and recognizes a culture of safety.

Credit for this award goes to the hard working Islanders, particularly the Command Safety Petty Officer AT1 Paul Randolph. He cites a proactive command that gets involved in all facets of Safety.

“I like to think that Safety starts with the individual and that everybody is looking out for their shipmates,” Randolph said.

Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Robert Collins, added, “It’s really a team effort. I’m proud of everyone and this award reflects greatly on the dedication of the Islander team.”

VR-61 will complete 14 detachments this year as it supports the fleet around the globe. Closer to home, VR-61 plays an important supporting role for NAS Whidbey’s Prowler squadrons. As “the Navy’s airline,”

VR-61 jets provide frequent service to VAQ Sailors departing to and returning from deployment.

The Safety “S” is a testament to over 91,000 mishap-free flight hours of service to the fleet.