Smith takes helm at VP-45

Capt. Tim Brewer, chief of staff, Naval Research Laboratories, honored the outgoing and incoming commanding officers with words about the unique set of leadership attributes that they all possess. He assured all in attendance that Wilson's leadership had prepared the squadron well for its upcoming deployment.

"The new Pelican front office is populated with impressive experience and capabilities that will no doubt facilitate a very successful deployment, beginning in June," said Brewer.

(From left) The official party salute the NAS Jax Honor Guard. Comdr. Gordon Wilson, Capt. Tim Brewer, Capt. Kyle Cozad and Cmdr. Andrew Smith.

In his farewell address, Wilson expressed how honored he was to serve as Skipper of the greatest squadron in naval aviation. "I attribute all of our accomplishments in a very challenging deployment readiness cycle to our Pelican pride, hard work and leadership at every level of VP-45," said Wilson.

Under his command, the Pelicans surpassed 39 years and 242,000 mishap-free flight hours during a challenging inter-deployment readiness cycle in preparation for the upcoming PACOM and SOUTHCOM deployment. Wilson also led the squadron through the transition from the Consolidated Maintenance Organization concept to organic, squadron-level maintenance. His guidance resulted in a smooth and expeditious addition of a new maintenance department and reintegration of 220 maintainers.

Wilson said, "This is a truly bittersweet day for me. When I reflect on the hard work and dedication of our Pelican family, I'm proud that we successfully completed one of the most difficult deployment readiness cycles in squadron history."

He stressed that while doing so, the squadron remained a model of how to get things done the right way and with integrity.

In keeping with ceremonial tradition, Cmdr. Smith kept his first remarks as commanding officer brief. The new Skipper thanked Wilson for his leadership during his executive officer tour. He also expressed gratitude to his wife and three sons for their dedicated support of his career. Smith extended a warm Pelican welcome to his new executive officer, Cmdr. Michael Doherty, his wife, and their four children.

Sailors of VP-45 salute as the official party arrives.

Doherty graduated with merit from the U.S. Naval Academy with an economics degree in 1992. He received his Wings of Gold in 1995. His was previously executive officer of the Fleet Replacement Squadron, VP-30, onboard NAS Jacksonville. Doherty said he looks forward to working with Smith and the proud Pelicans of VP-45 to build upon the squadron's reputation for excellence and operational mission accomplishment.