Charles Ledbetter

Strike Fighter Squadron 137 (VFA-137), known as the "Kestrels," was established on July 2, 1985, at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Originally flying the F/A-18A Hornet, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2003, enhancing its combat capabilities. VFA-137 has participated in numerous deployments, supporting operations such as Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom aboard various aircraft carriers. The squadron is renowned for its operational excellence and has earned several awards for its performance and safety record.

NAMCE Oceana is a specialized military engineering unit established in the early 2000s to support naval operations along the Atlantic seaboard. Originally formed as part of the Naval Advanced Maritime Construction Element (NAMCE), its primary missions include expeditionary construction, port repair, and rapid infrastructure development for the U.S. Navy and allied forces. Over the years, NAMCE Oceana has supported multiple humanitarian relief efforts and combat operations, notably during hurricane recovery operations and overseas deployments. The unit is renowned for its technical expertise and rapid response capabilities, making it a key asset in both peacetime and contingency operations.