On Friday, the Navy reported that Cmdr. Charles Diehl, commander of Airborne Command & Control Squadron 115 (VAW-115), had been dismissed of duty owing to a "loss of confidence in his ability to command." Based at Naval Air Station Point Mugu, California, the squadron, sometimes referred to as the "Liberty Bells," flies E-2D Hawkeye aircraft.
Rising from the Navy Fighter Weapons School (Top Gun) and a seasoned Naval Flight Officer, Cmdr. Diehl took command of VAW-115 in May 2024. Diehl has a remarkable career having flown over 2,500 hours in 12 different aircraft types, including deployments on the USS Ronald Reagan and USS Carl Vinson. Among his honors are three Strike/Flight Air Medals and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
The Navy withheld details about Diehl's dismissal, a procedure in line with managing senior dismissals. "The Navy maintains the highest standards for commanding officers and holds them accountable when those standards are not met," said the statement.
Since the 1970s, VAW-115 has operated E-2 aircraft; next year, it will convert to the improved E-2D Hawkeye. Thanks to their unique radar systems, these carrier-based planes are absolutely essential for tracking and guiding missions over large distances.
The Navy's dedication to leadership responsibility at all ranks is shown by Cmdr. Diehl's departure.
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