by Navy Office of Community Outreach
(MAYPORT, Fla.) – A 2004 Allen High School graduate and Dallas native is serving with a U.S. Navy helicopter squadron that flies the Navy’s newest and most technologically-advanced helicopter.
As an aviation maintenance administrationman, Hardman is responsible for the upkeep of computer servers and tracking of aircraft components.
“I get a sense of satisfaction knowing that I am helping keep all of our aircraft at HSM-40 mission ready at all times,” said Hardman.
According to Navy officials, the MH-60R is the most capable multi-mission helicopter available in the world today. It is used for a variety of missions, including hunting and tracking enemy submarines, attacking enemy ships, search and rescue, drug interdiction, delivering supplies and supporting the Navy’s special operations forces.
It is replacing the Navy’s older helicopters because of its greater versatility and more advanced weapon systems.
Hardman said he and other sailors are proud to be part of a warfighting team that readily defends America at all times.
“HSM-40 provides great training to its aircrew which in return, helps us complete flight missions throughout the fleet effectively and efficiently,” said Hardman.
Sailors’ jobs are highly varied within the squadron. Approximately 297 Navy men and women are assigned and keep all parts of the squadron running smoothly. This includes everything from maintaining helicopter airframes and engines, to processing paperwork, handling weapons and flying the aircraft.
"The Airwolves of HSM-40, represent the best and the brightest our Navy has to offer,” said Cmdr. David Loo, HSM-40 commanding officer. “HSM-40's mission is to train Fleet Replacement Pilots and Aircrewman for deployed shipboard operations in the MH-60R Seahawk aircraft. The training conducted includes aircraft flights and full visual simulators in Aircraft Operations, Anti-Surface Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Search and Rescue, and Shipboard Operations. HSM-40’s support, maintenance, and instructor staff allow for the completion of over 100 assigned students, year round, operating 16 MH-60R helicopters and 5 simulators.”
Serving in the Navy, Hardman is learning about being a more respectable leader, sailor and person through handling numerous responsibilities.
"Most importantly, the Navy has taught me self-discipline, integrity and a great sense of pride for my country,” said Hardman. “I also enjoy going on deployments and seeing the world while experiencing different cultures.”