During their first squadron quarters under new CO CDR J.R. Mathis, a number of "Ironclaws" received awards for their efforts at the "tip of the spear".
AMS3(AW) Chad Willett was doubly honored, receiving both a Letter of Commendation and the coveted Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist wings. AMS3 Willett was recognized for his exemplary efforts during the squadron's August detachment to Osan Air Base, Korea. He joins the growing ranks of Gauntlet warriors who wear their silver wings with pride.
ENS Jonathan Van Lare also received a Flag Letter of Commendation for his exemplary performance while assigned to the International Programs Department of the Collections Directorate, Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) from November 1996 to March 1997. RADM M.W. Cramer praised ENS Van Lare's critical assistance during one of the busiest times of the year for the ONI.
AMS2(AW) Warren Frondozo was awarded a Letter of Commendation from Commander, Carrier Group FIVE for his actions during the Gauntlets' spring WESTPAC deployment. On 25 April 97, AMS2 Frondozo discovered a missing tailhook arresting gear shear pin retaining bolt during a fourteen day inspection. Without AMS2 Frondozo's exceptional attention to detail, the aircraft's next arrested landing could have resulted in a catastrophic failure of the arresting hook, with potential loss of the aircraft and crew.
AZAN Paul Lazzarino was named the GAUNTLET Plane Captain of the Month for April 1997. AZAN Lazzarino earned universal recognition for his consistently outstanding performance during VAQ-136's spring WESTPAC deployment aboard the USS Independence (CV-62).