The Lancers of Electronic Attack Squadron 131 (VAQ-131) recently observed their Skipper, Cmdr. Stephen Flaherty, pass the Lancer spear to Cmdr. Richard Knapp in a Change of Command ceremony held aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Commander David Fields assumed the role of Executive Officer.

The Lancers operate the EA-6B Prowler out of NAS Whidbey Island and are currently assigned to Carrier Air Wing Two (CVW-2) aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).

The Lancers recently returned from an eight-month, around-the-world combat deployment this past August aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Most notably, the Lancers were involved in direct support of U.S. and Coalition forces conducting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

During this deployment the Lancers executed 925 sorties, 2,400 mishap-free flight hours and an impressive 100 percent combat mission completion rate in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Cmdr. Flaherty assumed command of the Lancers in August of 2011. Under his leadership, the Lancers earned the 2011 Commander, Naval Air Forces, Battle “E” — the Navy’s most comprehensive award recognizing operational excellence and tactical readiness.

When asked about his experience as the Commanding Officer of VAQ-131, Cmdr. Flaherty offered this statement: “My Command tour with VAQ-131 has been the highlight of my career. It is truly humbling to lead some of the finest sailors in the Navy. Our extraordinary accomplishments over the past couple of years are a testament to the dedication of the entire Lancer team. It has been an honor and a privilege to be Skipper of the Lancers.”

Cmdr. Knapp, assuming command of the Lancers, is a native of Seminole, Fla. He enlisted in the Army Reserve in 1987 and later transferred to the Marine Corps as an Aviation Electrician in 1989. He then received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating with a degree in Aerospace Engineering in 1995. Cmdr. Knapp has accumulated over 3,270 flight hours, including 482 arrested landings.

-Lt. Mark A. Hahn

VAQ-131 Public Affairs