With a short, simple ceremony, during of all things – a safety standown, Training Air Wing FIVE Commodore Capt. James Fisher presented the prestigious Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award to Training Squadron SIX in the Naval Air Station Whiting Field auditorium.
The award is presented annually to commands that display the vigilance and dedication to preserving the well-being of the military service members in their charge.
“What’s important to me today is what is always important when we fly,” Fisher stated to the assembled squadron. “Safety is always the number one priority. It trumps everything.”
Training Squadron SIX Commanding Officer Cmdr. Donald Jamiola received the award on behalf of the squadron and was one of the driving forces behind the 13,813 safely flown flight hours, a grade of “outstanding” on the annual Flight Instructor Standardization and Training inspection, and strict adherence to ASAP safety principles. ASAP is an anonymous, safety checklist that each pilot must fill out online upon completion of a flight. The process provides for total accountability of mission oriented events, mishaps or near misses. The emphasis on the program reflects a safety first mentality across the entire squadron.
Former SECNAV, Gordon R. England, established the Safety Excellence Award in 2002. His goal was to promote safe practices throughout the Department of the Navy and to recognize those commands that standout within the safety guidelines and procedures.
The award citation commended the squadrons “outstanding safety record” and praised the unit’s leadership and airmanship.
“Throughout the year, you consistently demonstrated the utmost professionalism, superb skill, and the highest level of operational readiness. Your exemplary record and superior performance significantly contributed to the Navy’s overall safety record,” the award stated.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: VT-6 Earns Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award