Redskins Fullback Visits HSC-21 Black Jacks

CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- A Washington Redskins player and Naval Academy graduate visited the "Black Jacks" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 at Naval Air Station North Island, Jan 28.

The visit was the first stop of Redskins fullback, Lt. j.g. Eric Kettani's, NFL off-season tour of military bases across the U.S., to honor and recognize service members for their contributions and sacrifice.

Kettani's tour began with an all-hands call, where he talked to the squadron's crew about the parallels of teamsmanship, safety and personal responsibility standards within the Navy and NFL. In a question and answer session, Kettani also addressed how his military experience and discipline actually gave him advantages in training for his professional football career.

HSC-21 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Greg J. Leland, and the entire squadron expressed how thrilled they were about the visit.

"It's nice to know that even though we have obligations to our country, we can still have passions, dreams and goals that we want to accomplish," said Naval Aircrewman 2nd Class Cody Sanchez. "To see that [Kettani] was able to accomplish his and still meet his military requirement was very inspirational to me. It lets me know that I have a good chance of doing it."

Kettani said he was excited to know that the squadron's leadership would allow him to come out and talk to Sailors.

"It was awesome for Cmdr. Leland to give me an opportunity to speak to the Sailors. Anytime I have an opportunity like that, I love to do it," said Kettani.

During his visit, Kettani also toured the squadron's work spaces, observing the crew's daily routines and getting to know Sailors in the airframe, aircrew, maintenance and survival equipment shops.

"I think it's kind of cool to have him come spend time with us and let us know that he supports us," said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Nicolas Puente.

Kettanni, who served three years active duty and deployed with the USS Klakring (FFG-42), said that he is committed to honoring the sacrifices made by the nation's active duty members and veterans by bringing awareness of their hard work to NFL fans.

HSC-21 provides helicopter capabilities for logistics, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance for the U.S. 7th and 5th Fleets and other various commands of the Pacific region.

For more news from Commander, Naval Air Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/airpac/.