VAQ-132 Becomes First Operational Growler Squadron Safe for Flight

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- The "Scorpions" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 132 held a flyover and a ceremony marking them as the first operational EA-18G Growler squadron to be designated
"Safe for Flight" on Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, Oct. 2.

The event marked the culmination of a seven-month training phase for VAQ-132 under the tutelage of VAQ-129, the fleet replacement squadron, as they transitioned from the EA-6B Prowler to the Growler.

"[This] was only possible due to years of dedicated effort by a list of people too numerous to thank here," said Cmdr. Scott Bunnay, VAQ-132 commanding officer.
"From the creative minds in [NAS] Patuxent River, to a dedicated line of requirement officers in the Pentagon, to the tireless plane captains in my line shack, a formidable team coalesced to bring the next generation of electronic attack to the Fleet."

Bunnay was proud of the accomplishments of his air and maintenance crews and confident in the squadron's capability.

"To all Scorpions; I feel honored to be surrounded by such a dedicated group of professional Sailors. You have proven that we will carry on VAQ-132's tradition of excellence," said Bunnay. "We will be ready when called to protect the security of our country by deploying as a highly capable and combat-ready squadron."