Foley native supports Naval Aviation modernization

By Specialist 1st Class David Wyscaver
Posted 3/8/17

LEMOORE, California — A Foley native and Foley High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy with Commander Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Airman Jonathan Gardner works as an …

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Foley native supports Naval Aviation modernization

Posted

LEMOORE, California — A Foley native and Foley High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy with Commander Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Airman Jonathan Gardner works as an aviation ordnanceman and operates out of Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.

Gardner is responsible for uploading and unloading ordnance and ensuring the ordnance works effectively.

“I like the atmosphere and the people I work with,” Gardner said. “I've enjoyed learning all about the different types of ordnance.”

Lemoore has been home to the Navy’s west coast strike fighter community since 1980, when strike fighter squadron VFA-125 was the first squadron established to train Navy and Marine Corps aviators in the F/A-18 Hornet, said Vice Adm. Mike Shoemaker, Commander, Naval Air Forces.

The strike fighter wing, headquartered at NAS Lemoore, ensures that each squadron is fully combat-ready to conduct carrier-based, all-weather, attack, fighter and support missions for the Pacific Fleet.

“The command is a family-like atmosphere and we all work well together,” Gardner said.

With the CSFWP consisting of more than 20 squadrons, highly specialized jobs range from training new aviators to maintaining airframes and engines, to handling and flying aircraft.

“Prepare for the future,” Gardner said. “The Navy is a really great platform that teaches drive and motivation to help set Sailors up for continuous success.”

Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class David Wyscaver is with the Navy Office of Community Outreach. For more articles, visit navyoutreach.blogspot.com.