Copake native keeps the Navy’s newest, most advanced helicopters flying

COPAKE — A 2013 Taconic Hills High School graduate and Copake native is serving with a U.S. Navy helicopter squadron that flies the Navy’s newest and most technologically-advanced helicopter.

Airman Alyssa Lindig is an aviation ordnanceman with the “Airwolves” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 40, a Mayport, Fla., based squadron that operates the Navy’s next generation submarine hunter and Anti-Surface Warfare helicopter, the MH-60R Seahawk. Each helicopter is nearly 65 feet long, may weight up to 23,500 pounds (max gross) and can travel over 120 mph for nearly 320 miles on a tank of gas.

As an aviation ordnanceman, Lindig is responsible for weapons on the MH-60R, ensuring that the weapons shoot properly and ensuring the safety of the helicopter.

“Copake taught me that it doesn’t matter where you come from, you can always go out and chase your dreams,” said Lindig. “I learned to never limit myself. I feel like I’ve made a name for myself by joining the Navy.”

According to Navy officials, the MH-60R is the most capable multi-mission helicopter available in the world today. It is used for a variety of missions, including hunting and tracking enemy submarines, attacking enemy ships, search and rescue, drug interdiction, delivering supplies and supporting the Navy’s special operations forces.

It is replacing the Navy’s older helicopters because of its greater versatility and more advanced weapon systems.

Lindig said she is proud to be a part of a war-fight team that readily defends America at all times.

“Everything I’ve got to experience in the Navy has been so rewarding,” said Lindig. “I was able to sing the national anthem for a retirement ceremony recently. It was nerve wracking, but it was really an honor to be asked to do that. In addition, I’ve been able to meet people all around the world that I can now call my brothers and sisters.”

Sailors’ jobs are highly varied within the squadron. Approximately 297 Navy men and women are assigned and keep all parts of the squadron running smoothly. This includes everything from maintaining helicopter airframes and engines, to processing paperwork, handling weapons and flying the aircraft.

Serving in the Navy, Lindig is learning about being a more respected leader, sailor and person through handling numerous responsibilities.

“Serving in the Navy is my way of life,” said Lindig. “I can’t see myself doing anything but serving. I love what I do.”

 

Lt. Wesley Holzapfel is in the Navy Office of Community Outreach.

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