Cmdr. Keith Eitner relieved Cmdr. Gregory Davis as commanding officer of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 Squadron Augment Unit (SAU) in a traditional change of command ceremony held Feb. 12.

Capt. Thomas Slais, Jr., commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet, was the guest speaker.

“It has truly been a privilege to work for and alongside all the talented people in the SAU,” said Davis. “The dedication of the Reservists who work here is second to none. Your training of future EA-6B and EA-18G pilots and naval flight officers is truly inspirational.”

Davis left the command in the capable hands of Eitner who has been with SAU since November 2006. He served as the Operations Officer and Maintenance Officer for the command before taking on the Executive Officer position during the last 18 months.

Eitner has accumulated nearly 2,500 flight hours and 350 carrier-arrested landings. He has flown in support of Operations Southern Watch, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

“I am honored and privileged to stand before SAU as the new commanding officer,” said Eitner. He thanked his family and friends for their support, the command personnel for their hard work in putting the change of command together, and his wife, who she announced is “due” any day now.

He also gave special thanks to Commodore Slais.

“Boss, it is extremely reassuring to step into this job knowing how supportive you are of this command,” said Eitner.

Eitner left Davis with a special message as he heads to his new command with the Joint Staff in Wash. D.C.

“I watched with happiness and sadness when you completed your last flight the other day,” said Eitner. “The SAU has truly lost a great aviator and great leader.”

As the ceremony concluded, Eitner had one final thing to say to the SAU Sailors.

“I just want you to know how extremely excited I am to be in command of the VAQ SAU,” said Eitner. “This is a great organization with great people. I will only ever ask one thing from you: Do your best. I don’t expect you to be perfect, but I do expect your best. And I promise you, I will do mine.”