Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
LEMOORE, Calif. – A 2004 Waukesha North graduate and Waukesha, Wisconsin, native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Fleet Readiness Center West where Commander Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet is located.
Petty Officer 1st Class Kyle R. Langerman works as an aviation ordnanceman and operates out of Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.A Navy aviation ordnanceman is responsible for the repair, maintenance and loading of aviation weapons systems.
“Growing up in the Midwest it is really cold,” said Langerman. “There is a great work ethic because you have to survive the winter. That works well in the military.”
The strike fighter wing, headquartered at NAS Lemoore, ensures that each squadron is fully combat-ready to conduct carrier-based, all-weather, attack, fighter and support missions for the Pacific Fleet.
Sailors stationed in Lemoore are responsible for the operation of the airfield, providing services and support to the Naval Air Station, tenant and transiting aircraft. They also provide firefighting functions, both structural and rescue and conduct shipboard firefighting training.
Langerman has military ties with family members who have previously served and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“My grandfathers all served in the Navy and I have a cousin in the Air Force,” said Langerman. “I always had pride from them, and it carried on making me want to serve in the Navy.”
Langerman is also proud of earning the Navy Achievement Medal in 2015 and 2017 as well as being selected as Senior Sailor of the Year.
With the CSFWP consisting of more than 20 squadrons, highly specialized jobs range from training new aviators to maintaining airframes and engines, to handling and flying aircraft.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Langerman and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy means making sure the name on this uniform means something,” Langerman added. “I am making sure I am carrying on their service and doing things the right way. I have enjoyed it.”