Naval Air Forces Commander Wraps Up Japan and Guam Tour, Boosts Combat Readiness and Sailor Welfare

The U.S. Navy’s “Air Boss,” Rear Admiral John Cheever, recently visited several key military locations in the Indo-Pacific region. Cheever’s itinerary included Kadena Air Base, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. One highlight of the tour was his visit to the forward-deployed Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), Carrier Air Wing 5, and various forward-deployed squadrons. The visit underscored the importance of Naval Aviation in ensuring regional security.

Cheever emphasized the critical role of these aviation forces, describing them as “the tip of the spear” in maintaining a secure Indo-Pacific region. He reinforced the necessity of training, resources, and support to uphold their readiness and mission capabilities.

During his visit, Cheever and Force Master Chief Eric Kuers engaged with command leadership to discuss pivotal topics like warfighting excellence and improving overseas Sailors’ quality of life. They recognized the contributions of outstanding Sailors, reinforcing the organization’s culture of trust and respect. “People are our most valuable asset,” noted Kuers, highlighting the need to empower every Sailor across diverse operational environments.

The Air Boss also evaluated the U.S. Navy’s modern aviation capabilities, observing the capabilities of the F-35C Lightning II, CMV-22B Osprey, and MQ-4C Triton. These platforms enhance the Navy’s capacity to deter threats and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Cheever flew with Strike Fighter Squadron 195, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges faced by aviators and maintainers. Commander of Carrier Air Wing 5, Capt. Brian Kesselring, remarked that the Air Boss’s engagement “underscores the importance of our mission and the trust he places in our warfighters.”

In Guam, Cheever visited Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, the only forward-deployed MH-60S expeditionary squadron, which is vital for search and rescue, logistics, and fleet support throughout the region. This inaugural visit to Japan and Guam as Air Boss reinforced morale, strengthened trust, and highlighted Naval Aviation’s indispensable role in global operations.