By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Charlotte C. Oliver, John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

The “Wizards” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 conducted an aerial change of command ceremony over the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) March 17.

Cmdr. Mike Bisbee, of Miami, Fla., relieved Cmdr. Christopher DeMay, of Farmingdale, N.Y., as commanding officer. Bisbee previously served as VAQ-133’s executive officer.

“I was very fortunate to have an outstanding group of officers, chief petty officers and enlisted Sailors,” said DeMay. “The squadron had a tremendous reputation before I took command and it was a challenge to maintain that reputation and team spirit. He [Bisbee] has been a great XO, friend and sounding board for me during my time here,” said DeMay.

DeMay’s next assignment will be as executive assistant at Commander, U.S. Fleet Cyber Command in Fort Meade, Md.

“He was an outstanding skipper, one of the best I’ve worked with,” said VAQ-133 Command Master Chief Matt Miesle, from Elmore, Ohio. “I think the crew is sad to see him go, but he is handing over a very successful squadron to very capable hands, and I can’t think of anyone better than Cmdr. Bisbee.”

While still supporting the mission at hand, Bisbee looks forward to returning to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and leading the squadron through the upcoming transition from the EA-6B Prowler to the EA-18G Growler.

“First and foremost my goal is to get everyone home,” said Bisbee. “After two back-to-back deployments I want everyone to be able to take time off with loved ones when we return before we start the transition.”

VAQ-133 is currently assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 aboard Stennis and has been in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) providing support to Operation Enduring Freedom since Oct. 18, 2012.

The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group, consisting of Stennis, CVW 9, Destroyer Squadron 21 and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR to strengthen regional partnerships, sustain maritime security, and support combatant commander requirements for assets in the area.

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