The Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 Shadowhawks are proud to be part of the inaugural introduction of the EA-18G Growler to fleet carrier-based operations, marking yet another historic benchmark for the Electronic Attack community at large. 

The recent Initial Service Evaluation (ISE) aboard USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) consisted of Carrier Qualifications (CQ) followed by cyclic operations for the Shadowhawks and the rest of Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW 8). 

The hard work of all the Shadowhawk Sailors led to the successful re-qualification of six pilots during CQ and was but one course of a steady diet of training the squadron will receive over the next year during work ups in preparation for deployment. 

Not only did the aircrew receive valuable training, Aviation Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class (AW) Peter Depoe, Aviation electrician’s Mate 2nd Class (AW) Andrew Loudermilk, and Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment) 2nd Class (AW) Jacob Jackson were all instrumental in the qualifying 12 new shipboard final checkers for the squadron. Shadowhawk Sailors handled the higher operational tempo of the carrier flight deck safely and professionally despite having been away from the carrier environment for more than a year. 

The squadron made history when aircraft AJ504, crewed by Lt. James Laird and Lt. Cmdr Elizabeth Somerville, captured the 5,000th trap aboard CVN 77 during the CQ period. 

Capt. DeWolfe Miller III, the carrier’s commanding officer, and Capt. Patrick Cleary, CVW 8, offered their congratulations and presented each crew member with the Captain’s Coin.

“I am very honored to be part of the ship’s history,” said Laird, after finding out he had just landed the 5,000th trap.

Following the completion of CQ, the Shadowhawks rolled directly into cyclic operations. This offered all squadrons assigned to CVW 8 an opportunity to fly joint-training missions in preparation for future combat missions. Additionally, the Shadowhawks were recognized as the Top Hook Squadron for the underway period, an amazing feat considering the squadron had been flying the new EA-18G Growler for less than six months. 

Interest in the Growler grew as other squadrons realized the amount of situational awareness and Electronic Attack support that the Growler was able to provide to the Wing. It is truly an exciting time for the future of the Electronic Attack community.

The Bush was the first carrier built during the 21st Century and the final Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. The ship is named after the 41st President of the United States, President George H. W. Bush, a former naval aviator who flew the TBM Avenger during WWII. The atmosphere onboard is one of excitement and pride. 

“The interaction between the ship and the squadron was fantastic,” said Lt. Donald Devine, VAQ-141 Maintenance Material control Officer. “The ship is very eager to assist both the aircrew and Maintenance Department.”

The Shadowhawks now head to Electronic Warfare Advanced Readiness Program at NAS Fallon, Nev., in early August as they continue to hone their skills prior to deployment.