By Kayla Good, Navy Office of
Community Outreach
NORFOLK, Va. – A 2014 North Gwinnett High School
graduate and Suwanee, Georgia native is serving in the U.S.
Navy with Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 120 (VAW-120).
Seaman Jeffrey Parrish works with the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Squadron, also
known as “Greyhawks”, operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
He
is responsible for maintaining all aircraft main and auxiliary hydraulic
power systems, which ensures that the aircraft will take off.
“This
job allows me to work outside,” said Parrish. “I
like that I am always moving around and not stuck in an office behind a desk.”
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.
“Our instructors train people very well within this
command,” said Parrish. “Everyone is really nice here.”
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.
“Serving in the Navy is an opportunity to give me a secure
furture for the family I want to have,” said Parrish.