Naval Air Station Fallon marked two significant milestones in its aviation community this month, with a formal Change of Command for VFC-13 and a final flight tribute honoring two long-serving leaders of the SEAWOLF Rotary Wing Weapons School.
On Friday, July 12, Fighter Squadron Composite (VFC) 13 held its official Change of Command ceremony as Commander Rob “MERman” Blackwood transferred command of the “Fighting Saints” to Commander Traver “Jody” Fordham. CDR Blackwood, whose leadership has left a lasting impression on the squadron, was recognized for his dedication to mission readiness and the professional development of his team.
As CDR Fordham steps into the new role, NAS Fallon leadership extended best wishes to CDR Blackwood in his next assignment, and congratulations to CDR Fordham as he takes the helm.
In a separate send-off steeped in naval aviation tradition, the Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center (NAWDC) and SEAWOLF Rotary Wing Weapons School honored Captain Dan “DT” Thomas and Senior Chief Petty Officer Mike “Mikey” McKnight with final flights, signifying the conclusion of their active duty flying careers.
CAPT Thomas has served as SEAWOLF’s department head since July 2023, playing a key leadership role in the rotary wing community. He now departs for his next assignment. LCPO McKnight retires after 23 years of service, including two tours with SEAWOLF.
Top right: Coming in for a final pass, the three ship formation of MH-60S helicopters for the final flight for CDR Dan “DT” Thomas and LCPO Mike “Mikey” McKnight. Photo by Gavin Graham, Public Affairs Officer NAS Fallon.
Above: LCPO Mike “Mikey” McKnight with his wife Helen and sons, Arthur and Benjamin. Photo by Gavin Graham, Public Affairs Officer NAS Fallon.
Right: CAPT Dan “DT” Thomas with his wife Erinne and sons Dylan and Davis. Photo by Gavin Graham, Public Affairs Officer NAS Fallon.
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