By Susan Brink, NADEP Public Affairs Specialist

On 24 January 2002, Naval Air Depot Jacksonville (NADEP JAX) had the honor of visiting with Vice Admiral Dyer, Commander, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR). Employees throughout the Depot were given the opportunity to visit with VADM Dyer and ask questions about the future of NADEP JAX and other NAVAIR programs. During his two-day visit, he made several stops at the facility and held meetings with different groups. His first meeting was with all active duty military members. VADM Dyer discussed Project Golden Wing and why it was important to us, the branding concept, his view of where we have been historically and where we are today with both technology and the war-fighting situation "Operation Enduring Freedom."

During a brief tour of the Depot, VADM Dyer made his first stop in the F-14 Hangar and met with several employees and addressed questions and concerns from the audience. VADM Dyer commended all personnel for the work they do here and stated, "We are seeing success in Operation Enduring Freedom. You get our planes to the carriers and keep them there. I thank you. Your work really makes an important difference, and I promised myself that I would make sure that you know that we know what you do, and we really appreciate it." VADM Dyer continued the tour visiting the Krinkley Engine Facility, the EA-6B Hangar, and the P-3 Hangar.

A brown bag lunch was held with current Senior Executive Management Development Program (SEMDP) members, recent graduates of the SEMDP program and employees that were interested in applying for the SEMDP program. These employees visited with Admiral Dyer and discussed the changing roles in management and SES positions, and the need for continued training and goals individuals should set for the advancement of their careers.

While VADM Dyer was here, NADEP JAX was host to DYERLINK. DYERLINK is a video teleconference that encompasses all NAVAIR facilities giving all facilities the opportunity to speak with VADM Dyer as he updates everyone on the current events going on at NAVAIR. Each NAVAIR facility is afforded time to discuss any issues they would like to bring up with VADM Dyer and is given a response that is always educational and pertinent to all facilities.

During the afternoon, VADM Dyer met with several other small groups. Representatives from each of the Depot's unions were invited to meet with the Admiral. They discussed topics such as Resumix, our aging workforce, local hiring processes, and CA Studies. VADM Dyer stressed the need for employees to apply for jobs well in advance because of the open-continuous listings, which save time in the recruitment process.

Mr. Bobby Stroud, Industrial Business Operations Manager, discussed the Depot's current CA Studies and provided him a thorough update. VADM Dyer was impressed with the progress the Depot has made on its CA Studies.

Members from Production Support met with VADM Dyer to discuss the MILCON program. NADEP JAX is one of the first to utilize the MILCON program to submit construction and renovation projects at the Depot. VADM Dyer showed support in all of the projects that were discussed and was satisfied with the justification and timelines laid out for all of them.

On Friday morning, members of upper management and the Area Commander's Exchange (ACE) attended breakfast with VADM Dyer at Mulligan's, the 19th Hole at the NAS JAX Golf Course.

VADM Dyer ended his two-day visit as the guest speaker at the Change of Command. In his opening remarks, VADM Dyer stated, "Changes of Command mark milestones in the lives of leaders and organizations. We gather at these events to celebrate the accomplishments and guidance of the exiting leader, express optimism for the fresh energy and ideas of the successor, and as in this case, bid farewell to a fine officer." During the ceremony, VADM Dyer also presented Captain Roum with the Legion of Merit. "I wish you all the best in your retirement, Chris. Our very best to you as you steer a new course in life! It's also important to have the right leadership taking over and guiding this organization into the future. Capt. Karl Yeakel brings a history of success," said Dyer.

-- USN --