Patrol Squadron (VP) 40 “Fighting Marlins” received the 2009 Aviation Battle Efficiency award just a little more than month after their return from a regularly scheduled six-month duel-deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Active Endeavor.

The Battle “E” award recognizes sustained superior performance in an operational environment. This is the second consecutive award the squadron has received for the last two deployments.

“The Fighting Marlins proved their status as the finest squadron in Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Ten by executing over 5,087 flight hours and 946 sorties, adding to their record of 41 years and 266,428 mishap-free flight hours,” said VP-40 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Michael McClintock.

Rear Adm. William Moran, commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Group sent an official message congratulating VP-40 on their selection for the Battle “E” award.

“2009 was a challenging and competitive year for this coveted award throughout the maritime patrol and reconnaissance force,” said Moran. “Antisubmarine warfare and intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance continue to be the backbone of our force. Your squadron excelled in all mission areas and it showed.”

During the OIF deployment, VP-40 operated in extreme weather conditions while supporting multi-national coalition forces. They executed over 2,630 combat flight hours, achieving a 99.6 percent mission completion rate.

“It feels great to win the Battle ‘E.’ It was a tough deployment and a hard-earned award,” said Aviation Machinist Mate 3rd Class Thalia Moreno of Orange County, Calif. “It lets us know we are being recognized for all our effort.”