Hospital corpsman, masters-at-arms, logistic specialists, and 90 Reserve Sailors representing many rates ventured outside their comfort zones to accept and overcome the challenge of learning the ins-and-outs of the Navy's P-3C Orion aircraft.

Forward deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, this group of Sailors dedicated several hours of free time each day to studying in order to go above and beyond to achieve one of the Navy's most coveted credentials, the enlisted aviation warfare specialist (EAWS) pin, a credential which typically takes up to 36 months to achieve.

Qualifying 90 Sailors in a short timeframe was not an easy feat, as "only aviation-capable units are authorized to run the EAWS program," said Command Master Chief Rodney Ourso. "Because we are not a typical command with an approved program, we were not authorized to participate without gaining a waiver."

In summer 2016, the waiver request was approved and Reservists deployed as individual augmentees could begin the two-segment qualification. The first segment provided a foundation in core aviation concepts and policies, as well as the platform-specific personnel qualification standards where Sailors receive hands-on, practical experience. Within segment two, the Sailors had to pass a written exam and oral board conducted by senior enlisted aviation personnel. Upon successfully completing the board, they were then qualified and authorized to wear the coveted warfare device on their uniform.

Due to the high demand for the qualification, the command scheduled daily classes around the Sailors' work schedules, offering four different class times throughout the day so Sailors could more easily balance a full workday with their coursework.

Within these courses, Sailors learned the ins-and-outs of the P-3C, a maritime surveillance aircraft. Since most of these Sailors did not have an aviation background, they formed study groups to help one another to learn the material.

"We showed up to study groups almost every day to learn together," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Joseph Morris. "Some used that time to learn the material. If they didn't prepare before that study session, they fell behind quickly."

The daily study sessions helped prepare each Sailor to complete their personnel qualification standards, which consisted of extensive training in flight operations including weapons management, electronic warfare, and water survival. From there, Sailors took two 50-question exams, and upon passing them, completed a practical which included a P-3C visual inspection.

"The walk-around consisted of each Sailor walking around the plane and identifying and discussing every aspect of the aircraft," said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Israel Trejo. Each Sailor was expected to know everything from engine size and name to what each lever did.

During the oral board process, each Sailor was quizzed by three board members to assess what they learned. For many, memorization and retention was the most difficult part.

Trejo explained, "I don't retain a lot of information well, so having to remember 100-plus pages verbatim was tough."

For these 90 Navy Reservists, the time and effort put into earning this warfare device meant much more than just acquiring another badge for their uniform. It encompassed attaining a qualification which can assist with their advancement.

As the first of 10 generations to serve, Trejo wanted to stand out among his peers and show his children they can achieve anything they put their minds to. The long process, countless hours of study and the ability to overcome adversity made achieving this qualification special for him.

While each Sailor earned their EAWS pin for different reasons, they all had one thing in common -- all 90 overcame hectic schedules, time constraints, and went outside their comfort zones to work together to enhance both their careers and their knowledge, making themselves better Sailors and strengthening their command's capabilities.

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For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/.