Following an outstanding year of operational success, Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron One (VQ-1) was selected for the Battle Efficiency Award for 2004.

For the third time in four years, VQ-1 has once again set the precedent for squadron excellence with this award.

The Battle ‘E’ award is presented to the aviation squadron in each category that excels in training and operational achievements, efficiency and overall readiness.

Cmdr. G. D. Morgan, VQ-1 Commanding Officer said, “It’s a tremendous honor to be selected as the Battle ‘E’ winner. Our squadron is deployed 365 days a year, getting the job done in two separate areas of responsibility. Our maintenance and aircrews come and go so often that the usual fanfare associated with deployment or homecoming is dismissed as routine.

“In reality, there are few aviation squadrons, if any, that work harder or accomplish as much from year to year as the men and women of VQ-1.”

VQ-1’s commitment to excellence is demonstrated by its ability to deploy a nationally tasked asset globally within 72 hours. The command has pioneered firsts in tactical doctrine, despite the constraints of a 30-year-old platform and decreased aircraft availability.

The flawless performance displayed by VQ-1 crews provided strategic and tactical reconnaissance coverage to Fifth and Seventh Fleet Commanders.

In the past year, combat reconnaissance crews responded to collection and targeting support for multiple joint operations including Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and operations near the Horn of Africa.

VQ-1 set the standard in operational achievement by flying over 5,000 hours and 500 missions with a 97 percent mission completion rate.

Signal processing conducted by EP-3E crews facilitated crucial prosecution of enemy targets by coalition air and ground units during combat action in Iraq and Afghanistan. These flights were credited with saving the lives of coalition forces on numerous occasions, including convoy escorts and supporting strikes on insurgent hot spots.

Capt. John Dziminowicz, Wing 10 Commodore, noted in his endorsement, “VQ-1’s record of operational excellence clearly shows that they are the premier combat support squadron in the Navy.”

In addition to the Battle ‘E’, VQ-1 earned the Golden Wrench and Retention Excellence awards. The Golden Wrench is awarded to the squadron with the most exceptional maintenance record; the Retention Excellence Award is awarded to commands that meet or exceed reenlistment and attrition goals.

Morgan summed it up when he said, “I could not be more proud of this squadron or what we’ve achieved and it’s great to be recognized for a job well done.”