Weapons system officer Capt. Alain Martinez recently joined Navy Electronic Attack Squadron 140 (VAQ-140) at NAS Whidbey Island, Wash., becoming the unit’s first USAF EA-6B Prowler electronic countermeasures officer. While airmen occasionally fly with shore-based Prowler units, Martinez is unique among even this select group. “It is definitely a challenge and a little daunting, but I see it as a great experience that few Air Force aviators ever get a chance to partake in,” said Martinez. He will serve aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower when VAQ-140 deploys as part of Carrier Air Wing Seven. Previously assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron at RAF Lakenheath, Britain, flying the F-15E, Martinez completed WSO training at NAS Pensacola, Fla., in 2005. (Whidbey Island release)
The Air Force is renaming its traditional aviation bonus program in 2024 and continuing a new, experimental second program, ordered by Congress, aimed at getting aviators to extend their commitment sooner and for longer. While the programs can’t be doubled-up, aviators may be able to move from one to the…