Released by the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division Public Affairs Office--U.S. Marine Corps pilot Lt. Col. James “Hawk” Hawkins will be the featured speaker on Thursday, March 10, at 3:30 p.m. in the Technical Library of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD).

Hawkins will talk about the AV-8B Harrier, and describe several developmental test programs recently completed, underway or planned for the near future. He will explain the role of the Joint Systems Support Activity (JSSA) in integrating new avionics into the aircraft by creating higher quality software and providing an overall increased warfighting capability. He will also explain the role of the AV-8B in USMC warfighting doctrine.

The event is open to all WD employees and is the fourth in a series of the “Have I Got A Story For You!” program, which focuses on preserving and sharing stories about the history, people, and contributions of China Lake. “Lt. Col. Hawkins was a natural choice for the program,” said Ann Moorehead, library technician, “because he is so enthusiastic about the contributions that China Lake personnel have made – both to the AV-8B and to the Global War on Terrorism.

“Storytelling fits right in with our goals,” said Sandy Bradley, library director. “The library’s mission is to capture, preserve and disseminate information for NAVAIR. It is a satisfying responsibility to safeguard and pass on knowledge from one generation to the next. Stories are an effective way to communicate and understand an organization’s culture and help employees develop a sense of organizational identity.”

The informal, storytelling programs allows participants to interact, ask questions and discuss ideas with each speaker. The Technical Library is located just inside the north gate of the Michelson Lab compound, Building 02496. For access or more information, call 939-4668.

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Photo Cutline: Official Navy Photo

Two AV-8B Harriers from China Lake's VX-31 squadron fly over the Indian Wells Valley.