Daniel Reed supports future of naval aviation

A 2007 West Orange High School graduate and Orlando native is serving with Naval Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL) supporting the future of naval aviation aboard Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Daniel Reed is an aviation ordnanceman with NTWL, responsible for uploading and downloading air support ordnance for the command's aircraft and ground forces.
“What I enjoy most about my job is the sense of pride I get when taking care of and supporting my fellow sailors while on deployment,” Reed said.
NTWL is responsible for safe and efficient execution of developmental ground and flight testing across all naval aviation platforms and systems.
It consists of five component commands, air test and evaluation squadrons, VX-20, HX-21 and VX-23, the Unmanned Aerial Systems Test Directorate and U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.
Reed works directly for VX-20, which is responsible for testing and evaluating the Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft systems.
“The camaraderie is the best thing about serving at this command," said Reed. "I get the opportunity to work with a great group of shipmates."
NTWL includes approximately 3,800 personnel, including 400 military, 800 civilian, 2,500 contractors and 65 students at any given time. Working together to accomplish the command’s test and evaluation mission, they do everything from maintaining aircraft airframes, electronic systems and engines to handling administrative requirements, developing test plans, reporting test results, handling weapons and flying the aircraft.
“The men and women of Naval Test Wing Atlantic do great work every day to keep naval aviation at the cutting edge," said Capt. Brett Pierson, NTWL commander. “Whether they're flying or maintaining our aircraft, developing or executing test plans, or taking care of all the support we need in order to do what we do so well, our team takes pride in ensuring systems are ready for the fleet. I'm very proud of our people for what they do to defend our nation.”
Serving in the Navy, Reed is learning about being more of a leader through handling numerous responsibilities.
"Serving in the military has not only strengthened my work ethic and attention to detail but most importantly, the morals and values instilled in me by the Navy has made me a better man, father and husband,” Reed said.