NORFOLK, Va. - Members of the staff of Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic took time out on Oct. 13 to participate in a time-honored tradition as they celebrated the U.S. Navy’s 245^th birthday.

Assembled in AIRLANT’s headquarters conference room and various other virtual conference rooms, the staff’s officers, enlisted personnel, and civilians took part in the annual ceremony while following COVID-19 protocol of wearing facemasks and social distancing.

The central theme of the 245^th anniversary is “Victory at Sea” and appropriately emphasizes the Pacific Theater battles during World War II.

Rear Adm. John F. Meier, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic, welcomed those attending the in-person and virtual ceremony after watching a historical video on the Battle of the Philippine Sea, June 19-20, 1944 and the steadfast commitment to Naval Aviation.

“It is incumbent on all of us to continue to build our readiness levels to the highest point. A strong Navy is not a cause for war, but a surest contributor for peace,” said Meier, who emphasized the importance of readiness during both World War II and today and the lessons we can learn from their heroism.

Following the admiral’s comments, the traditional cake-cutting ceremony featuring the youngest Sailor present, Information Systems Technician Seaman Apprentice Jared Knudson of Des Moines, Iowa, and the most senior Sailor present, Master Chief Electronics Technician (SW)/(AW) Joey Short, of Valparaiso, Florida.

Twenty-year-old Knudson enlisted in the Navy on Nov. 14, 2019. Following recruit training and IT Class” A” School he reported aboard AIRLANT.

“It’s an honor and a privilege that I am able to participate in a ceremony like this. I am a little nervous but it is a great experience and I am proud to be in the presence of so many senior people,” said Knudson.

Short, who is retiring from the Navy on Nov. 30 after 30 years of dedicated naval service, reflected on his time in uniform.

“I have seen a lot of changes and the young Sailors of today are making the difference,” said Short. “The Navy is not for everyone, but for those who choose to make it a career it is a great place to be. I served the last three years on AIRLANT staff and enjoyed every minute of it.”

The Navy’s 245^th birthday represents and celebrates the honor, courage, and commitment of all Sailors, past and present. The “Greatest Generation” achieved victory at sea in World War II in the Pacific Theater. Their service continues to inspire today’s globally deployed Sailors who maintain security and stability for our allies and ensure prosperity worldwide.
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COMNAVAIRLANT is responsible for six nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 54 aircraft squadrons, 1,200 aircraft and 43,000 officers, enlisted and civilian personnel based on the East Coast of the United States.  It provides combat ready, sustainable naval air forces with the right personnel, properly trained and equipped, with a focus on readiness, operational excellence, interoperability, safety, and efficient resourcing.