By Petty Officer 3rd
Class Jamal McNeill, Navy Office of Community Outreach
NORFOLK, Va. – A 2010 Corona Del Sol High School graduate
and Phoenix native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Carrier Airborne Early
Warning Squadron 120 (VAW-120).
Ensign Kevin Goodsell works with the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
Squadron, also known as “Greyhawks”, operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
He is responsible for the learning all of the systems and tactics
on how to operate the E-2D aircraft
“Being a naval flight officer on this type of aircraft is
great because I get to conduct unique tactical missions from aircraft
carriers,” said Goodsell.
VAW 120’s primary mission is to fly and train naval
aviators, naval flight officers, and naval aircrewmen to safely and effectively
operate E-2 and C-2 aircraft, preparing them to join the fleet.
The training also includes the newest variant of the E-2D
aircraft platform, the Advanced Hawkeye, which serves as the most advanced
surveillance aircraft in the Navy. It
features a state of the art radar with more capability and upgraded aircraft
systems that will improve supportability and increase readiness.
“The Greyhawks of VAW-120 work
diligently to accomplish the mission of the sole Fleet Replacement Squadron for
the E-2 and C-2 communities,” said Cmdr. Evan Morrison, Commanding Officer VAW
120. “It is an honor to see the quality of production set forth by my sailors,
and to witness the development of the Navy’s future Airborne Early Warning and
Logistics leaders.”
With a crew of over 100 sailors, jobs
are highly specialized and keep each part of the Hawkeye running smoothly,
according to Navy officials. The jobs range from training the new
aviators, maintaining airframes and engines, processing paperwork, as well as
handling and flying the aircraft.
“Serving at this command is great because the instructors
promote a positive learning environment and pass on valuable knowledge to
ensure I am progressing to my full potential,” said Goodsell.
While on deployment, challenging living conditions build
strong fellowship among the crew, Navy officials explained. The crew is highly
motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of
specialized work, watches, and drills.
“The Navy has given me the opportunity to experience things
outside of my comfort zone while being a part of something bigger then myself
by doing my part in protecting this great nation,” said Goodsell.