Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic conducts Aerial Change of Command
17 November 2023
NORFOLK, Va. -- Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic (CHSCWL), stationed aboard Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, held a change of command ceremony, Nov. 9, to mark a transition of command leadership.
During the change of command event, Capt. Steven Thomas, of Littleton, Colorado, assumed all duties and responsibilities as the CHSCWL commodore from Capt. Edward Johnson, of Arlington, Virginia.
“It was an honor to lead the HSCWL family,” Johnson said as he thanked the Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) communities for a rewarding experience to lead the men and women of CHSCWL.
During his tenure, the HM and HSC communities received 23 Retention Excellence “Golden Anchor”, 13 Blue “M” Squadron Medical Readiness, six Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety “S”, six Blue “H” Squadron Excellence in Health, Wellness, and Fitness, one Ashore Blue “E” for Supply Excellence, and nine Battle “E” Efficiency Awards.
Johnson was directly responsible for more than 4,000 Sailors and 139 aircraft while leading 13 commands as they operated four unique type/model/series helicopters in support of world-wide operations at sea and ashore. His leadership enabled the sourcing of rotary wing requirements in the U.S. 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility (AOR).
Johnson’s steadfast leadership was instrumental to the deployment of detachments in support of 19 joint exercises, humanitarian aid, search and recovery operations, and the transportation of more than seven million pounds of cargo. Specifically, in the U.S. 2nd and 4th Fleet AOR, they disrupted nearly 6,500 kilograms of narcotics worth approximately $265 million dollars.
During the change of command ceremony, Thomas recognized Johnson for his leadership and dedication to the community. He also praised the HM and HSC communities for their expertise and dedication.
“The HM and HSC communities are focused and prepared for their critical roles,” said Thomas. “We will continue to hone those combat skills and toughness to ensure our teams win.”
CHSCWL is the Navy's largest type wing with 11 squadrons flying more than 140 aircraft composed of over 4,000 officers, enlisted and civilian personnel.