Command Updates Saberhawk Change of Command by LTJG Mike "SKE" Twardy, USN
O
n February 22, 2019, CDR Steve "Cheese" Steacy relieved CDR Newt "Bomb" McKissick to become the 27th Commanding Officer of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 (HSM-77) at Naval Air Facility Atsugi. CDR Tom "Tool" Uhl assumed the role of Executive Officer. CAPT Matt “Schnap” Schnappauf, Commander of the Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet, attended the ceremony as the guest speaker and reflected on CDR McKissick's leadership of the squadron through multiple deployments. He stated, "It’s obvious this squadron is running like a welloiled machine under the leadership of CDR Newt “McKissick. .Part of being a member of a winning organization is being faced with a series of opportunities, many times brilliantly disguised as seemingly impossible obstacles, or otherwise presented as challenges. Fortunately, I have always believed that challenges are opportunities.” Without a doubt, HSM-77 will continue to overcome obstacles and maintain combat readiness as the squadron prepares for their next deployment in the spring of 2019 under the leadership of CDR Steacy.
Sailors attached to the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 stand in formation during a change of command ceremony. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob Smith.
CDR McKissick receiving the Meritorious Service Medal from CAPT Forrest Young, Commander, Carrier Air Wing 5. Photo courtesy of NAF Atsugi PAO.
Rotor Review #145 Summer ‘19
86