Jackson assumes the reins of VT-2

MILTON — U.S. Navy Cmdr. Zachariah Aperauch turned over command of Training Squadron TWO (VT-2) to Cmdr. Mark Jackson, U.S. Coast Guard during a change of command ceremony June 15 at the Naval Air Station Whiting Field North Field hangar.

U.S. Marine Corps Colonel David Morris served as the guest speaker for the time honored tradition that allows for the assembled crew, staff, friends and guests to welcome in the new commander, while also recognizing the achievements of the outgoing leader.

Aperauch's inspirational leadership led VT-2 to fly more than 52,500 flight hours in the completion of more than 23,350 sorties. This dedication to training enabled the squadron to see 619 Student Aviators successfully complete the Primary Flight Training syllabus during his command tour. His commitment to professionalism and instruction were also evidenced in the unit's selection for the 2017 Commander Theodore G. Ellyson Aviator Production Excellence Award, and the 2017 Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Award.

Commanding VT-2 was the latest stop for Aperauch on an 18-year military aviation career that began after graduating from Old Dominion University and earning his commission from Officer Candidate School in May, 2000. He served tours with the "Vanguard" of HM-14; Airborne Mine Countermeasures Weapon Systems Training School (AWSTS) as a Fleet Replacement Squadron Instructor; Joint Staff J7 (training) division; and the USS San Antonio (LPD 17). He earned a Master's Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Joint Forces Staff College. He is now headed to Sasebo, Japan and will serve as the air boss, responsible for all aspects of operations involving aircraft aboard USS WASP (LHD-1).

Cmdr Aperauch offered the following parting thoughts to his squadron. "It's been my life's honor to serve as your commanding officer, and I pray you achieve every success that you set your heart to. Your willingness to serve unwaveringly to protect our freedoms around the world and to lay so costly a sacrifice on the altar of freedom is nothing short of heroic. I am truly humbled to have served with you and I can offer you nothing but my highest respect-thank you."

Jackson took command of VT-2 Friday and will draw upon his 22 years of Coast Guard service and experience to fill the shoes of his predecessor.

His career began after graduating from the Coast Guard Academy in 1996 where he spent two years aboard the U.S. Coast Guard heavy icebreaker Polar Sea. He then reported to flight school and completed his primary flight training with VT-2. He "winged" in November of 1999 as a helicopter pilot from Helicopter Training Squadron EIGHTEEN before being stationed in Miami, Fla., where he flew the HH-65 Dolphin helicopter. Since then he has served tours at Coast Guard Stations in Elizabeth City, NC and Jacksonville, FL. He deployed to Central and South America, as well as Southeast Asia. Commander Jackson also completed advanced education at Old Dominion University, earning a Master's degree in Engineering Management.

Cmdr. Wesley Barnes, U.S. Navy, will replace Jackson as Executive Officer for the squadron.

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Jackson assumes the reins of VT-2