VP-8 conducts exercise with JMSDF VP-3

Photo By Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe | Sailors and maintainers assigned to the “Fighting Tigers” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 8, pose for a group photo after a friendly soccer game. VP-8 completed an anti-surface warfare bilateral exercise with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s VP-3 onboard Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Michael Mitchell)  

ATSUGI, KANAGAWA, JAPAN

10.18.2012

Courtesy Story

Naval Air Facility Misawa

NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan – While on detachment, Combat Aircrew 3 from Patrol Squadron (VP) 8 “Fighting Tigers” took part in a bilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) VP-3 “Sea Eagles,” Oct. 16-18.

The exercise focused on improving tactical communication and coordination between the squadrons and consisted of a static aircraft display where both squadrons were invited onboard to tour the aircraft followed by a coordinated anti-submarine warfare flight.

“I’ve been fortunate to have worked with VP-2 ‘Odin’ during an exercise in Misawa and now the ‘Sea Eagles’ in Atsugi. Both experiences have been great. The squadrons have tremendous knowledge and skill, and provide valuable training experiences for our aircrew,” said Lt. Daniel Kuriluk, VP-8 plane commander, who had worked with the JMSDF before and was again impressed with their skill and professionalism.

The “Sea Eagles” hosted a number of social events during CAC 3’s detachment including a soccer match and cookout. The soccer match was held Oct. 17 and due to the large turnout, four teams were formed and a tournament ensued. Teams were divided evenly and consisted of both Japanese and U.S. members. Afterward the “Sea Eagles” presented the winning team with a certificate and sticker from their Atsugi Soccer Club.

“The soccer matches were a lot of fun,” said Naval Aircrewman (Operator) 2nd Class Amanda Sullivan. “The Japanese are such good hosts and a lot of fun to be around.”

Following the conclusion of the soccer matches the “Sea Eagles” invited the “Fighting Tigers” to a cookout. Hot dogs and hamburgers were served, while members of both squadrons exchanged patches, hats, and other gifts while having the chance to interact prior to the exercise.

“It was great being able to interact with the ‘Sea Eagles’ on both a personal and then a professional level,” said Naval Aircrewman (Avionics) 2nd Class Daniel D’Orsi. “You could tell friendships had been formed over just a few days which made working together during the exercise a lot more enjoyable.”

On the last day of the detachment prior to the final flight both squadrons had one last opportunity to send crewmembers to tour the other squadron’s aircraft. Crewmembers enjoyed learning about the similarities and differences between the two aircraft.

“I would like to thank Patrol Squadron 8 for their participation in this exercise,” said Lt. Sato, JMSDF plane commander. “It is great to have the opportunity to work together and accomplish a common goal.”

For more news from Patrol Squadron EIGHT please visit our Facebook site at https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Patrol-Squadron-EIGHT-VP-8/335177721864

• Date Taken: 10.18.2012
• Date Posted: 10.22.2012 18:32
• Story ID: 96581
• Location: ATSUGI, KANAGAWA, JP
• Hometown: JACKSONVILLE, FL, US