7th Fleet Visits Naval Air Facility Misawa

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Darrius Wharton, U.S. Naval Air Facility Misawa Public Affairs

MISAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet paid a visit to the Sailors of Naval Air Facility Misawa, its tenant commands, and deployed Patrol Squadron (VP) 1, Dec. 12.

This is Vice Adm. Scott Swift's first visit to Misawa, and coincides with the return of rotationally-deployed VP squadrons to this northern-Japan located U.S. naval installation.

"The return of P-3 deployments to Misawa is a return to pre-2007 levels, and I want to ensure our Sailors receive the resources they need to accomplish the mission," Swift said. "These are some fantastic facilities here, and I foresee Misawa, its Sailors and assets continuing to play a vital role in protecting the stability of the region."

Swift also talked about his vision for the fleet.

"The 7th Fleet business model is people come first," Swift said. "I say people first because it's not just about the Sailors, it's also about their families and our civilian employees."

"Leadership needs to be engaged, and it's important that commanders are making sure their Sailors have the keys to success for what they want to do in the Navy or as they transition to a new career in the civilian sector.

Swift said he is happy with the performance of 7th Fleet and its Sailors.

"It's an honor for me to call myself a 7th Fleet Sailor," said Swift. "I couldn't be happier with the extraordinary work I see these Sailors doing."