VP-4 Participates in Ilopango Airshow 2020

SAN SALVADOR, EL SALVADOR

02.03.2020

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Juan Sua 

Patrol Squadron 4

VP-4 Public Affairs

COMALAPA, EL SALVADOR - A United States P-8A Poseidon aircraft and crew, assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 4, participated in the Ilopango Airshow in San Salvador, El Salvador, Feb. 01, 2020.

The 23rd annual Ilopango Airshow, the largest of its kind in Central America, boasts an average of 40,000 attendees. Over the years, the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance assets have had a history of attending this highly visible event. In recent years, VP squadrons have been able to further increase public awareness of how the P-8A, the Fleet’s premiere multi-mission platform is positively affecting the region.

"The opportunity to engage and support our El Salvadorian partners in the Navy’s Southern Command area of responsibility (AOR) remains a top priority for VP-4's mission down here,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Buck, VP-4’s 4th Fleet detachment officer in charge. “We were very honored to be asked to participate in the Ilopango Airshow 2020.”

During the event, VP-4 Sailors answered questions and took pictures with the public while the P-8A was on display.

“The entire hosting staff was very courteous, professional, and made it a great event,” said Buck. “Having Ambassador Johnson stop by to tour the aircraft and meet with our aircrew and maintainers was extremely encouraging and motivating to our detachment. VP-4 looks to continue the relationships and partnerships we share down here with our South American counterparts.”

VP-4, currently forward deployed to Cooperative Security Location COMALAPA, El Salvador participates in Joint Interagency Task Force South countering illicit trafficking operations, U.S. Navy Southern Command directed humanitarian missions, and Search and Rescue efforts.

• Date Taken: 02.03.2020
• Date Posted: 02.21.2020 12:11
• Story ID: 363613
• Location: SAN SALVADOR, SV