Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic (CNAL) celebrated the Navy’s 244th birthday with a cake cutting ceremony and a historical presentation from the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Oct. 10.

Laura Orr, Director of Education at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum spoke to CNAL Sailors and civilians about the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the bravery displayed during that battle which will mark its 75th anniversary on Oct. 25. Orr also discussed the Vietnam War and the service and sacrifice of Sailors who fought during that conflict. 

“The Battle of Leyte Gulf resulted in a major victory for the United States,” added Orr, who discussed three main themes during her presentation that define our Navy’s history, which include: Bravery, responsibility, and perseverance.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest sea battle in modern history was combined with U.S. naval air attacks which helped to thwart enemy attempts to destroy U.S. landing forces. Additional U.S. victories in the Sibuyan Sea, Surigao Strait, and off Cape Engano destroyed much of the Japanese navy's remaining offensive power.

Orr added that this year’s Navy birthday theme, “No Higher Honor” is a fitting theme to define the legacy of naval leaders who have served our nation proudly.

“The U.S. Navy has a rich history that is why we celebrate the Navy’s birthday on Oct. 13 as a sacred day for us to remember and carry on,” said Orr. “Remembering the Navy’s legacy enables us to continue the Navy’s bravery, responsibility, and perseverance for another 244 years.”

During the cake-cutting portion of the ceremony, the oldest and youngest Sailors assigned to CNAL to cut the ceremonial cake.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gregory Collins, the oldest CNAL Sailor at the ceremony to cut the ceremonial cake also discussed the importance of leadership and pausing to reflect on the Navy’s history and heritage.

“We have a really proud sense of history and heritage,” said Collins. “We are an extension of the leaders we learned about today.”

Information Systems Technician Seaman Jake Storm, the youngest CNAL Sailor to cut the ceremonial cake appreciated learning about the Navy’s history and reflected on mentoring and leadership.

“We look up to the Sailors who have served in the Navy longer for their leadership and as good role models,” said Storm, who added their leadership will serve to mold future generations of Sailors.

CNAL is responsible for four nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 54 aircraft squadrons, 1,200 aircraft and 50,000 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.