Cmdr. Patrick Baker was relieved by Cmdr. Leslie Mintz during a Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (VFA-213) “Blacklions” change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana Nov. 21.

With the traditional exchange of salutes, Mintz relieved Baker and assumed all duties and responsibilities as the commanding officer of VFA-213 in a ceremony attended by distinguished visitors, family, and VFA-213 crew.

“It has been my distinct privilege and honor to have been the commanding officer of the finest fighter squadron in the Navy,” said Baker. “The men and women of VFA-213 are truly the finest professionals that America has to offer, and they have made my tour the most enjoyable of my entire naval career. I eagerly await their future successes.”

Mintz reflected on the fighting spirit of the men and women assigned to the Blacklions.

“The Blacklions are a team of lethal warfighters ready to execute the mission in support of our nation and I am humbled and grateful to assume command of the finest fighter squadron in the Navy,” Mintz said.

Capt. Patrick Greene, Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, served as the guest speaker.

Baker also received the Meritorious Service Medal for outstanding service while serving as Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of VFA-213. Demonstrating brilliant foresight, he distinguished himself as an outstanding leader dedicated to tactical dominance and operational readiness.

Baker’s ingenuity resulted in the first combat employment of 10 Joint Direct Attack Munition GBU-32’s by VFA-213 against Da’esh forces while supporting Operation Inherent Resolve.

As the lead squadron during the Navy Weapons Systems Evaluation Program, his tenacity enabled Carrier Air Wing Eight’s (CVW-8) employment of a record 56 air-to-air missiles, with VFA-213 earning the Naval Air Forces Atlantic Grand Slam Award.

Baker’s exceptional leadership drove VFA-213 in achieving an above-average score of 93.5 percent during the Naval Air Forces Aviation Maintenance Inspection.

When disaggregating aircraft to meet dynamic force employment requirements, Baker’s direction ensured 22 flawless Super Hornet transfers and acceptances, resulting in an agile and less predictable overall force.

Under Baker’s command, VFA-213 produced two test pilots, four strike fighter tactics instructors, four forward air controller qualifications, and 25 Strike Fighter Weapons and Tactics level threes and fours.

Baker’s exceptional professionalism, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of U.S. Naval service.