The "Royal Maces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 held an airborne change of command ceremony in the skies above aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) July 13, while underway in the Western Pacific.

Cmdr. Daniel D. Cochran, VFA-27's executive officer, assumed command from Cmdr. Adrian T. Calder during an airborne change of command presided over by Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 Commander, Capt. John Enfield. Calder ceremonially passed the lead of the three F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft formation to Cochran, with VFA-27, CVW-5 and Reagan personnel witnessing the event from the ship's flight deck. Cmdr. Alex L. Hampton assumed duties as executive officer.

Upon taking command in 2015, Calder said, "Taking command of arguably the finest squadron in the Pacific Fleet is both humbling and exciting. I am supremely confident in the talent and dedication of the professionals in my charge as we continue our valued partnership with our Japanese allies while operating as part of the Navy's '9-1-1 Air Wing.'"

In preparation of assuming command, Cochran stated, "Cmdr. Calder has prepared this squadron for success in every aspect of our vital mission. He has ensured VFA-27 [remains] an elite fighting force, vital to diplomacy across this region and the world. I'm extremely blessed to become the custodian of such a fine unit and [be] given the opportunity to lead this group of professionals. They are truly exemplary."

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