OAK HARBOR, Wash. – A 1995 Destrehan High School graduate and Destrehan native is serving with the U.S. Navy’s aviation Electronic Attack Squadron, also known as the “Scorpions.”

Petty Officer 3rd Class Trevor Bordelon is an aviation machinist’s mate with VAQ-132, a Whidbey Island-based squadron that operates the Navy’s newest electronic warfare aircraft, the EA-18G Growler.

Bordelon contributes to the squadron’s mission by working on the fuel to the oil systems. He is responsible for the maintenance on the Growler engine.

Built to replace the EA-6B Prowler, the EA-18G Growler is a carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft and the cornerstone of the naval Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) mission.

It’s platform is derived from the combat proven F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft, and adds a sophisticated electronic warfare suite that enables it to suppress enemy air defenses as well as electronic attack operations.

“The Growler is such an innovative system,” Bordelon said. “The Navy basically hot-rod modified the F-18.”

The Growler has two seats, is over 60 feet long, and can weigh up to 66,000 lbs. when fully loaded with all missiles and electronic jammers. It is capable of traveling over 1,100 miles per hour; around 1.5 times the speed of sound.

Bordelon said he is proud to be a part of the 187-member squadron that is ready to defend America at all times and enjoys working.

“I’ve gotten to travel the world with the squadron,” Bordelon said. “I’ve been to Japan, Guam, Australia, and South Korea. It’s been amazing.”

Sailors’ jobs are highly varied with VAQ-132. The men and women keep all parts of the squadron running smoothly — this includes everything from maintaining aircraft airframes and engines, to processing paperwork, handling weaponry, and flying the aircraft.

“Every day I am constantly impressed by my exceptional sailors,” said Cmdr. David J. Rueter, VAQ-132’s commanding officer.

“My team is filled with hardworking and highly qualified professionals who hold uncommon levels of responsibility and accountability in support of our mission: Provide worldwide tactical Airborne Electronic Attack against targets at sea or ashore in support of U.S. and Coalition combat forces. They embody the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment to the fullest!”