CEO SYNEXXUS Inc. | USNI Trustee | Adjunct Professor United States Naval Academy | Educating Future Leaders & Engineers
Thirty-three years ago - toward what would end up being the end of Operation Desert Storm - the ordinance crew from Attack Squadron Three-Five (VA-35) loaded 22 Mk-82 500lb (230 kg) unguided, low drag general purpose bombs onto our squadron's A-6E Intruder. During the Persian Gulf War it is estimated that 4,500 GBU-12/Mk-82 were dropped onto Iraqi forces - all loaded by the strong backs of sailors and airmen. From the pictures below the task of uploading 22 500 pound bombs on a single aircraft is hard, back breaking labor. The burden of loading these weapons onto a four aircraft division only added to the daily stress and fatigue for the crew who worked tirelessly for more than 6 months. That's more than 45,000 lbs (22 tons) of ordnance - not to mention the time it took to prepare the weapons for safe release. The dedication and commitment by our Navy sailors never wavered - true unsung heroes of VA-35 and Navy Squadrons deployed in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. As a young naval officer, division officer, and squadron pilot I watched them toil, without complaint, instead joking and chiding each other to do more despite their exhaustion. On this given day I decided to help decrease their burden loading those weapons - just one sailor helping another - silently - without hesitation. Regardless of rank - are you willing to roll up your sleeves - and help those who never ask for help? Are you uninhibited by hierarchy? #navy, #navalaviation, #leadership, #usnavy, #innovation, #usna, #calledtoserve
Says it all...leading from the front when it counts...team work trumps all...
Yes it is the troops who support us leaders that enable us to complete our mission. BZ to all the unsung heros who serve.
A short walk in another’s shoes goes a long way.
One of the greatest squadrons in history because of its people. Great leadership breeds success! BZ to the Rayguns!
Taxpayer money well spent all around.
"Chew the Same Dirt"
and let's hear it for the yellow gear! Main battery on a CVN
It really is a team!
One hand for the ship, one hand for the man!
Vice Admiral (Ret) United States Navy
8moWell said Greg Thanks Best Collin