Philippine Navy HQ Welcomes Commander of US 7th Fleet

The commander of the United States Navy (USN) 7th Fleet, Vice Admiral Scott H Swift visited on Thursday (07 March 2013) the Headquarters, Philippine Navy (HPN) and paid a courtesy call on the Navy Chief Vice Admiral Jose Luis M Alano. Vice Admiral Scott’s visit is in relation to the 4 day Goodwill visit of the USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19), the Flagship of the 7th Fleet.

Based on his biography, Vice Adm. Swift attended San Diego State University and received his commission in 1979 through the Aviation Reserve Officer Candidate Program. He received his master’s degree from the Naval War College, Newport, R.I.

His operational assignments include: Attack Squadron (VA) 94; VA-97; Carrier Air Wing 11 staff; commander Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 97; commander, Carrier Air Wing 14; deputy commander, Naval Forces; U.S. Central Command, and commander, Carrier Strike Group Nine. During those tours he participated in combat Operations Praying Mantis, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

His shore tour assignments include: VA-122; Naval War College; commander of Strike Fighter Weapons School, Pacific; F/A-18 requirements officer OPNAV staff; command of VFA-122; officer of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics staff; and, director of Operations U.S. Pacific Command.

Swift has been recognized as the Commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet Landing Signal Officer of the Year, presented the Commander Michael G. Hoff Award as the U.S. Pacific Fleet Attack Aviator of the Year, and is entitled to wear the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with Combat V, along with various other personal, unit and service awards.

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Naval Today Staff, March 13, 2013; Image: Philippine Navy