Patrol Squadron (VP) 16 War Eagles

We congratulate our newest Instructor Pilot, Patrol Plane Commander, and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist! As War Eagles, we constantly strive to sharpen our operational prowess and refine our profession- nothing demonstrates that commitment more clearly than earning new qualifications. Their hard work and dedication set the standard for all of us as we continue to strengthen both our competence and lethality as a patrol squadron.

The Barrel Has Turned Over

For the last few months VP-16 stood the watch. This weekend, that responsibility passed in time-honored tradition at the barrel turnover, where VP-5 was handed the mission with pride and confidence. We raise a glass—knowing the Ready remains in steady hands.

New Year, New Medals, New Promotions

As we begin 2026, we are incredibly proud to recognize the outstanding performance of those who were awarded the Air Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. We also extend our sincerest congratulations to our newly promoted Petty Officers! Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence are what make this squadron great. Bravo Zulu!

The War Eagles were honored to welcome our Commodore, Captain Carl E. White, as we recognized a significant milestone for VP-16. Our North Star achievement reflects a full year of disciplined decision-making, strong leadership, and a culture that prioritizes accountability, professionalism, and taking care of one another—on and off duty.

While our bowling scores may not have broken any records, the camaraderie, laughs, and team spirit on display were a reminder that strong teams are built both in and out of uniform.

SANTA’S GOT A BRAND NEW BAG (OF AWARDS)

Old Saint Nick dropped in on Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN, spreading Holiday cheer and hard-earned awards. Please join us in congratulating AZAN REGINALD JOHNCHANCE III as War Eagle of the Year 2025! As an Aviation Maintenance Administrationman, AZAN JohnChance III provided superior performance as Logs & Records clerk, ensuring advanced data integrity, expertly addressing aircraft discrepancies, and qualifying his fellow War Eagles to increase maintenance production.

We are grateful for the many sailors and aircrew of VP-16 that enable us to preserve a ready posture through the Christmas season. The honor, dedication, and persistence of the War Eagle team has contributed to a successful 2025 year, and we look forward to the turn of the decade as we continue to deter aggression and pursue freedom of the seas.

WARGAMES DURING THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

As we approached the Holidays, Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN sent trained aircrew & personnel to the southwest United States on a detachment supporting integrated Carrier Strike Group (CSG) operations. Beginning in the early hours of the morning, P-8 aircraft departed NAS Jacksonville to demonstrate our ability to integrate seamlessly into the CSG ecosystem in order to respond to threats and engage in operations that maintain freedom of the seas.

The P-8 Poseidon enhances the U.S. Navy’s Carrier Strike Group with unmatched maritime reconnaissance, and uses its versatility to ensure dominance over vast ocean expanses, safeguarding the fleet and projecting maritime power.

Last month Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN supported UNITAS, the world’s longest-running multinational maritime exercise. UNITAS 2025 strengthened our interoperability with 25 Partner and Allied nations from across the globe by demonstrating how our partners in the region work together to defend against hemispheric threats.

From tracking submarines to sharing best practices with allied forces, Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN continues to demonstrate tactical proficiency, lethality, and teamwork on a global stage.

Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN recently traveled to Recruit Training Command (RTC) in Great Lakes, IL to deliver a guidon and officially sponsor a division of recruits beginning their journey towards becoming United States Sailors.

We are honored to support and motivate these future warriors during their time at boot camp, and look forward to returning in a few weeks to cheer them on at graduation when they will join the Fleet.

On 16 September, the War Eagles welcomed four new Chiefs into the nest who have each demonstrated their commitment to excellence, teamwork, and selfless service of others. Please join us in congratulating the newest Chief Petty Officers of Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN!

ADC Chunn
AMC Cruz
AMC Giessregen
AWOC Quigley

Becoming a Chief is more than just a promotion, it is a commitment to lead, mentor, and uphold the highest standards of the Navy. Patrol Squadron SIXTEEN could not be more proud of these four new Chiefs and we look forward to seeing all the positive impacts they will make in the future!

This past Friday, the War Eagles gathered off-site to celebrate the life of AWO1 Cody Reed, who recently passed. Cody was a vital part of the War Eagle team, providing friendship, mentorship, leadership, and guidance to those around him. He was a strong leader, well-respected role model, and incredibly selfless. The presence, impact, and legacy he leaves behind as a VP-16 War Eagle will always be remembered.

Cody lived with courage and served with honor. We extend our heartfelt thoughts to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Fair winds and following seas, Cody.

At the heart of everything we do is a clear purpose: to develop competent sailors and maintain capable aircraft to deter in peace and win in war.