Gordon assumes command of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 1, Seagraves bids farewell

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Maj. Joshua S. K. Gordon assumed command of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 1 from Lt. Col. Chandler P. Seagraves during a ceremony at the squadron's hangar aboard Cherry Point, Friday.

Seagraves stands down to assume the duties as the executive officer of Marine Aircraft Group 14.

In his final address, Seagraves thanked all his Marines and Sailors for a job well done.

"The commander doesn't do the work, it's on the backs of the Marines," said Seagraves. "I couldn't have asked for a more professional group to help carry out the missions of VMAQ-1."

Gordon comes from within the "Banshee" family, where he served as the executive officer. He said he is glad to continue his service with the Marines of VMAQ-1

"I know the caliber of Marines I'm getting," said Gordon. "I couldn't be more proud to take over as the commanding officer of this squadron."

The squadron was awarded the Secretary of Defense Phoenix Award for 2011, the Secretary of Defense Maintenance Award for 2011 and the units seventh Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Award.

Gordon's career highlights include Fleet Replacement Squadron Instructor with Electronic Attack Squadron 129 and selection for the Naval Flight officer to Naval Aviator transition. He was designated a Naval Aviator in December 2007.