Patrol Squadron 69s Combat Aircrew Seven recently completed a successful and historic detachment to the Western Pacific.

“Lucky Seven” solidified their spot in Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 10 history as the first Reserve Component aircrew to participate in an operational detachment since the recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group and Commander, Naval Air Force, Reserve was made effective.

The memorandum states that the Reserve Component crews are to support the Active Component squadrons through their surge annual training periods as part of the CNO’s Fleet Response Plan.

In keeping with the MOA, VP-69 assembled a detachment consisting of aircrew, maintenance, operations, and intelligence personnel. The detachment deployed from Nov. 3 to 19 in support of Commander, Task Group 72.2, based out of Kadena Air Base, Japan.

The detachment functioned superbly, with CAC-7 flying six sorties in numerous mission areas throughout the CTF 72.2 area of responsibility.

The detachment team provided valuable support during a high operational tempo deployment. The crew earned praise from several sources for their professionalism and tactical achievement on-station.

VP-40 Commanding Officer and current Commander of Task Group 72.2, Cmdr. Ken Bowen said, “When the Reserve Component from VP-69 joined our efforts in Seventh Fleet, they increased the combat capability of Task Group 72.2 measurably. They engaged in the global war on terror with direct action and performed superbly.  It was truly a pleasure to have them join us in the fight.”

The VP Reserve Force is a veteran organization, with its members having served previously on active duty.  VP-69 members bring vast experience from their previous service, as well as from varied civilian backgrounds.

The detachment added to the list of firsts for VP-69s CAC-7.

Additionally, they are the first Wing 10 Reserve Component aircrew to complete the Advanced Readiness Program, as well as the first to become surge-ready under the Fleet Training and Readiness Matrix.

VP-69 plans to flow eight additional combat aircrews through ARP over the next 18 months, providing more surge-ready aircrews to support Wing 10 deployments.  The Totems proved the merits of Active-Reserve Integration through their seamless integration into the Active Component, and CAC-7 set the standard for future Reserve Component aircrews by their superior performance.