Face of Defense: Marine Helps Pilots Navigate Runways

By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Andrea Dickerson

2nd Marine Aircraft Wing

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C., June 8, 2012 – Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Zachary G. Harrison is out to learn as many military skills as he can.

An ordnance technician working with EA-6B Prowler aircraft, Harrison also can be seen on the flightline here, visually communicating necessary commands and signals Prowler pilots need to navigate the runway.

“He is one of the best Marines this squadron has,” Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jasmine L. Saunders, the ordnance chief for Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 3, said of Harrison. “He is always our go-to person because [of] the dedication he has for his job.”

Harrison “is the first to volunteer when we need something done,” Saunders said. “His work ethic is unparalleled.”

A native of Port Huron, Mich., Harrison said he loves his job because there is always the opportunity to gain knowledge and new skills.

“I work with the ordnance on the Prowlers, but I am now training as a team leader so I am now the person standing in front of the aircraft conducting hand and arm signals to other team members,” he said.

Saunders said Harrison is progressing very quickly though he’s only been with the squadron a short time.