Under Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly visited pilots assigned to the "Dusty Dogs" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 and the "Dragon Whales" of HSC-28 Dec. 12.

The purpose of the visit was to give recognition for their support during the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) efforts in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, as well as to understand the purpose and capabilities of today's Navy.

As a former helicopter pilot, Modly spoke fondly of his memories in the Navy.

"I've always had my heart in the Navy and the aviation community, so I'm really thrilled to be back trying to help advance what we do," he said. "I'm really pleased to come down here this early in my tenure to start talking to people about what they see, what's fulfilling about their jobs, what they see the biggest challenges are and basically where I can help from my position."

Pilots had the chance to share some of their stories from the HA/DR efforts and the effect they had on the people that they were helping.

"We would see people coming out and waving and giving us thumbs-up," said Lt. Cmdr. Neil Toohey, maintenance officer at HSC-7. "Just seeing our helicopters was a huge win for them and a reassurance."

In addition to meeting with pilots, Modly also visited maintenance control and the hangar bay.

The visit was part of a larger visit to multiple commands throughout Hampton Roads. Having been sworn in this position Dec. 4, this was Modly's first visit to Norfolk as under secretary, and helped to provide insight on the importance of people, capabilities and processes.

"I'm very proud of the work these guys do and I'm also really honored to be part of this legacy of being a Navy helicopter pilot, because what they can do in an emergency situation is something no one else can do," said Modly. "I think it's an incredible compliment to them but also to a great part of what our country does."

Other commands visited today include the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Boise (SSN 764), the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Laboon (DDG 58) and Naval Special Warfare Group 4.