Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the oldest Maritime Strike Squadron helicopter squadron, Lt. j.g. Evan Key is a part of a Naval legacy. Key is a pilot who flies helicopters off of Navy ships. He is currently serving with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, which supports the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis.
“My favorite part about the job is the flying,” said Key. “I grew up going to air shows with my dad and I have always wanted to do it.”
Key is a 2011 Blue Valley Northwest High School graduate and native of Overland Park, Kansas. He also graduated from Kansas University in 2016.
According to Key, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Overland Park.
“Overland Park set me up and taught me all the tools I needed in college to be successful,” said Key. “Things such as time management, being responsible, adaptability and having goals that you make sure you follow through with.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Sailors assigned to HSM-71 are a part of history, flying with “Romeo” helicopters, the newest and most advanced in the fleet. Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations.
The members of HSM-71 achieve excellence in military performance and create an example for other squadrons to follow through operational readiness, innovation and weapon development.
HSM-71 sailors play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s aircraft carriers. Aircraft carriers and carrier strike groups remain the centerpiece of our nation’s security strategy, supporting and protecting America’s national interests around the world. Carrier strike groups operate across the entire spectrum of military operations, according to Navy officials.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. However, Key is most proud of earning his designation as a Navy pilot.
“I am most proud of earning my gold wings,” said Key. “It has been a thing I have worked for since a kid and it is the first milestone in my Navy aviation career."
For Key, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Key hope to continue.
“Both of my grandfathers and several aunts and uncles have served,” said Key. “It means a lot to carry on that tradition. My dad always wanted to serve but he was not physically eligible because he hurt himself playing sports in high school and college. It is nice carrying the torch for him.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Key, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy is a chance to continue family tradition and give back as well,” said Key. “It is also a dream job because I get to fly most days, and it doesn’t even feel like work most of the time.”
Key is a 2011 Blue Valley Northwest High School graduate and native of Overland Park, Kansas. He also graduated from Kansas University in 2016.
According to Key, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Overland Park.
“Overland Park set me up and taught me all the tools I needed in college to be successful,” said Key. “Things such as time management, being responsible, adaptability and having goals that you make sure you follow through with.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Sailors assigned to HSM-71 are a part of history, flying with “Romeo” helicopters, the newest and most advanced in the fleet. Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations.
The members of HSM-71 achieve excellence in military performance and create an example for other squadrons to follow through operational readiness, innovation and weapon development.
HSM-71 sailors play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s aircraft carriers. Aircraft carriers and carrier strike groups remain the centerpiece of our nation’s security strategy, supporting and protecting America’s national interests around the world. Carrier strike groups operate across the entire spectrum of military operations, according to Navy officials.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. However, Key is most proud of earning his designation as a Navy pilot.
“I am most proud of earning my gold wings,” said Key. “It has been a thing I have worked for since a kid and it is the first milestone in my Navy aviation career."
For Key, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Key hope to continue.
“Both of my grandfathers and several aunts and uncles have served,” said Key. “It means a lot to carry on that tradition. My dad always wanted to serve but he was not physically eligible because he hurt himself playing sports in high school and college. It is nice carrying the torch for him.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Key, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy is a chance to continue family tradition and give back as well,” said Key. “It is also a dream job because I get to fly most days, and it doesn’t even feel like work most of the time.”