Score: Houthi Terrorists: 0 - U.S. Navy Rotary Wing: 3, Decisive Win!

By RADM Dan "Dano" Fillion, USN (Ret.)

Why, because the aircrews were Ready, the maintainers ensured the aircraft and weapons system were Ready and because those two components performed superbly some shiitake heads had a really bad day!

Fix, Fly, Fight could not have been scripted any better than the display of capability during that engagement. This issue is focused on Fix, Fly, Fight which is synonymous with teamwork.

The success of the crews who conducted the strike finally validated. the lethality and capability of the Armed Helo Concept and it’s not a coincidence that our Symposium 2024 theme is “Be Ready.” NHA will continue to advocate for a more robust, actionable discussion at Symposium for FVL (Future of Vertical Lift).

As I write this column, your NHA organization is advocating on behalf of Rotary Wing communities for a state of the art Digital HRS, the Rescue Swimmers Badge (RSB), and Medal of Honor Helo at the front gate of NASNI. I got some very constructive feedback from a retired Master Chief at Fleet Fly-In last November about LTM prices for our Enlisted Aircrew and the world’s best Maintainers. The result was in January of this year NHA reduced the price for enlisted warriors substantially. Go to the membership page on the NHA Website and check for yourself! We are seeing an increase in Enlisted LTM Active and Retired. I can’t say it enough, this is YOUR organization. The staff at NHA Headquarters is determined to continue to improve the service we provide each of you. That is our contribution to support all of you in uniform and your families to “Be Ready!”

“I Never Lose. I either Win or I Learn!” - Nelson Mandela

As always, I am,

Vr and CNJI (Committed Not just Involved),

Dano