By Heidi McCormick – Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class, Navy Office of Community Outreach
A 2012 Arroyo Grande High School graduate and Arroyo Grande native is serving with a U.S. Navy electronic attack squadron that flies the Navy’s newest and most technologically-advanced aircraft, the EA-18G Growler.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Abraham Munoz is an aviation structural mechanic with the “Graudas” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 134, one of 14 Navy electronic attack squadrons based in Whidbey Island, Washington.
As an aviation structural mechanic, Munoz is responsible for fixing and maintaining the hydraulic components and structural repair on naval aircraft.
“I like the fact that I get to do something new every day,” said Munoz. “I take a lot of pride in what I do. When I fix something it feels good to have that sense of accomplishment.”
Taking off from and landing on Navy aircraft carriers as well as supporting expeditionary land-based operations around the world, the Growlers and their crews engage in electronic warfare, one of the most important components of modern air combat, according to Navy sources. The electronic warfare mission involves jamming enemy radar and communications systems in order to render air defenses ineffective.
To accomplish these tasks, the Growler has a sophisticated electronic warfare suite, complete with advanced receivers, jamming pods and satellite communications.
“The aircraft is well designed and very manageable when it comes to repairs,” said Munoz.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s squadrons with the newest aircraft platforms, Munoz said he and other VAQ -134 sailors are proud to be part of a war-fighting team that readily defends America at all times.
“I like the camaraderie and the work environment in this squadron; it feels like home,” said Munoz.
Sailors’ jobs are highly varied at VAQ -134, according to Navy officials. Approximately 65 officers, 400 enlisted men and women, and 110 civilian contractors make up and keep all parts of the squadron running smoothly — this includes everything from maintaining airframes and engines, to processing paperwork, handling weaponry, and flying the aircraft.
“Every day I feel an extraordinary amount of pride to serve alongside our great nation’s most inspiring men and women,” said Capt. Scott Farr, Commander, Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “Our team is filled with hardworking and highly qualified professionals who hold uncommon levels of responsibility and accountability in support of our mission: to maintain, fly, and fight the Growler around the world. Their work ethic, commitment, enthusiasm, and esprit de corps are second to none!”
Serving in the Navy, Munoz is learning about being a more responsible leader, sailor and citizen through handling numerous responsibilities.
“I’ve learned how to rely on myself as well as my shipmates,” said Munoz. “I’ve gained a lot of confidence with all of the responsibilities that are presented to me on a daily basis.”
