OAK HARBOR, Wash. – Petty Officer 1st Class Zach Tedder, a native of St. Louis, Missouri, joined the Navy for the opportunity to pursue higher education.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marc Cuenca |
“There's a sense of pride within our squadron,” said Tedder.
Tedder, a 2006 graduate of Fox High School, is an aviation electrician’s mate with Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, a high-tech electronic attack squadron capable of altering the outcome of any engagement with the EA-18G “Growler.”
Tedder is also a 2019 graduate of Skagit Valley Community College with degree in general arts.
“I am responsible for ensuring the jet if capable to fly safely and effectively,” said Tedder.
Tedder credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in St. Louis.
“My mom taught me the value of self worth,” said Tedder. "No matter what you do, put your best foot forward, and that has helped me while I'm serving."
Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130's primary mission is to conduct airborne electronic warfare while embarked with a carrier air wing. They deploy with aircraft carriers to project electronic attack dominance anywhere in the world at any time. This includes suppression of enemy radar systems, sensor jamming and electronic protection.
The EA-18G “Growler” is the most advanced airborne electronic attack (AEA) platform in production today, according to Navy officials. The Navy invests in advanced “Growler” capabilities to ensure it continues to protect all strike aircraft during high-threat missions for decades to come.
“We are the only group of people who perform the mission that we perform,” said Tedder.
Serving in the Navy means Tedder is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
A key element of the Navy the nation needs is tied to the fact that America is a maritime nation, and that the nation’s prosperity is tied to the ability to operate freely on the world’s oceans. More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water; 80 percent of the world’s population lives close to a coast; and 90 percent of all global trade by volume travels by sea.
“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Tedder is most proud of being meritoriously promoted to the rank of first class petty officer.
“It took a lot of hard work and dedication and it paid off,” said Tedder. "I helped better others life which in turn bettered my life."
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Tedder and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes contributing to the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy gives me the ability to provide for my children,” said Tedder.