Royal Maces Return, Ready with ‘Super’ Capabilities

The Source for Navy News


	Official U.S. Navy file photo of an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the “Royal Maces” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 launching from USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). The Royal Maces returned home to Atsugi, Japan, Sept. 22 after training in Lemmore, Calif., to transition to the Super Hornet.
	View Larger	Download HiRes

Royal Maces Return, Ready with ‘Super’ Capabilities
Story Number: NNS041013-05
Release Date: 10/13/2004 4:28:00 PM

By Journalist Seaman Matthew Schwarz, Naval Air Facility Atsugi Public Affairs

ATSUGI, Japan (NNS) -- Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 returned home to Naval Air Facility Atsugi Sept. 22 after participating in the squadron’s transition from the F/A-18C Hornet to the new F/A-18E Super Hornet.

The training for the shift took place at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., allowing members of the squadron to learn what they needed in order to maintain and operate the Super Hornets.

“The Super Hornet is a fantastic aircraft, which greatly enhances the capabilities of the air wing and the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Strike Group, and we are all extremely excited about finally employing the new aircraft with all the forward deployed naval forces,” said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Abrahamson, VFA-27’s administration officer.

The "Royal Maces" 13 new Super Hornets serve as the full complement of the squadron’s aircraft and were scheduled to arrive in multiple waves Sept. 30, but were delayed due to weather. The squadron’s leadership, along with almost 40 family members, were on hand to greet the Sailors with snacks, hugs and waving hands.

“After a long four months in Lemoore, it’s great to be back home with Carrier Air Wing 5 and our families,” Abrahamson said.

For related news, visit the Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/nafatsugi.

E-mail this story to a friend | Send a comment about this story

Search:


All Any Exact