VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Lt. Joseph Rooney, a native of Melrose, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, which operates the F/A-18 Super Hornet, nicknamed the Rhino.
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| Photo by Britteney Powers |
Rooney graduated from Hoosic Valley Central High School in 2012, and then went on to earn a degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University.
“It was small-town U.S.A.,” said Rooney. “You learned to work hard, take pride in what you do, who you are and where you’re from. That all translates well to the military.”
Rooney joined the Navy in 2016, attending Officer Candidate School and then reporting to Pensacola, Florida, for flight school. Eight years and 900 flight hours later, Rooney now serves as an instructor for the next generation of F/A-18 pilots and weapon system officers.
“I joined because I wanted to make a difference,” said Rooney. “I’ve been given some incredible opportunities along the way to do just that, and I’m very thankful for it.”
The mission of the Rhino demonstration team is to share the rich heritage of naval aviation and display the hard work and dedication of U.S. Navy service members to the public. The 2024 season will be Rooney’s first with the team.
The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. The aircraft take off from and land aboard Navy aircraft carriers at sea and are capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land.
Navy aircraft carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea. With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, the aircraft carrier is a self-contained mobile airport.
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Rooney serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Rooney is thankful for the opportunities and experiences serving in the Navy has provided.
“It’s been an unbelievable journey so far,” said Rooney. “It’s a demanding job, make no mistake about it. But, the people I’ve met along the way make it special. They become family. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
Rooney can take pride in serving America through military service.
“It’s a leap of faith when you raise your right hand and sign on the dotted line,” said Rooney. “I was nervous -- who wouldn’t be, but I’m glad I did it. I love this country, and being able to serve in the world’s greatest Navy, being able to fly the Rhino, well I’m just very lucky.”
An updated schedule, along with other information about the Rhino team is available at https://www.facebook.com/rhinodemoteam/