4 minute read
A Fair to Remember
By LT Jennifer Haddy, USN
Outreach is a vital part of sustaining relationships in our communities. Their support is the driving force behind our military. Without the support of our local, state, and national communities, the Navy would be unable to accomplish the important operational tasks that defend the interests of our country and its people. It can be extremely surprising to realize how few people we protect, actually understand what we do. This could not have been more prevalent than in Salt Lake City, Utah - a city that is neither close to the water, nor used to dealing with the Navy.
Hundreds of faces at the busy Utah State Fair turned skyward as our MH-60S flew right over their heads. The rodeo crowd paused to look up as it was announced that an “Army Blackhawk” was coming in to land. To the surprise of many, we turned final and rolled out to a sight of thousands of flashing lights from carnival rides, food stands, and a cleared LZ in the middle of a packed parking lot. Many kids could not believe what they were seeing: a large military helicopter landing right in front of them. They were even more shocked by the diverse crew of pilots and aircrewmen who climbed out of the helicopter after a safe shutdown. It was an incredible opportunity to demonstrate our unique capabilities as a platform.
We spent every day that next week in the sun at the Utah State Fair for Navy Fleet Week as part of the Navy’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative, talking with locals and those who traveled from out of town for the fair. There seemed to be a common theme throughout the week. Nobody knew who we were or what we did. Most assumed we were in the Army or Air Force, and they thought that our helicopter was no longer operational. Each time, we would politely explain that it was only twelve years old, and it was dirty from just returning from a long deployment with HSC-6 in the Pacific Ocean. At one point, we were even asked what wars the helicopter had fought in. A lot of community members asked great questions once they realized we were in the Navy, and we were able to discuss what the Naval Helicopter Community does while inspiring the next generation.
It was truly a unique experience to talk with so many people who are so far removed from our shores, observing their admiration of such a diverse crew. It was especially special for me to be able to represent the female aviator community for the Navy’s 50th Anniversary of Women Flying in Aviation this year. One of my favorite comments was from an older gentleman, who remarked, “I can’t believe that a woman flies this thing.” Comments like that demonstrate why we need to better represent the Navy with more community outreach events to normalize women and minorities in our military.
Representing the Navy and chatting with hundreds of locals over five days was an irreplaceable experience that made a true impact on the community. Every child left wanting to be a gunner or a pilot, and every adult left knowing more about our helicopter and community. Most people had never been that close to a military helicopter before, which led to some entertaining questions. My personal favorite came from a little boy asking, “Is this a Hot Wheels?”
We also had the opportunity to visit the Utah State University Navy ROTC Program to talk with the students about the aviation community. Hearing their questions reminded us of how far we all have come to be seated on the other side of the table, telling our stories. It was a pleasure to pay it forward to the next generation of Naval officers and pilots.
Being in an operational squadron can be difficult sometimes, working so hard only for people to not understand what we do. It was such an important and special opportunity to be able to represent the Navy, show people who we are, and explain why our operations are so important. The people of Salt Lake City were extremely welcoming, and we thank them for their hospitality!
