KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Nm. -- Our 23rd Flying Training Squadron (FTS) at Fort Novosel proudly marked a historic milestone on May 16th, graduating its first U.S. Coast Guard officers.
Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) Patrick Darmody and LTJG Derek Zillinger completed their helicopter flight training with the 23rd FTS and are now set to fly the MH-65 Dolphin, a critical asset in Coast Guard operations.
LTJG Zillinger, a prior enlisted member, distinguished himself by graduating at the top of his class, earning both Distinguished Graduate honors and the prestigious Order of Daedalians AETC Commander’s Trophy.
Before flight training, LTJG Darmody served as a navigator with the Coast Guard, completing three Anti-Migration and Counter-Narcotics patrols across the Caribbean and Windward Pass.
The next step in their journey takes them to Mobile, Alabama, for advanced MH-65 training. Following that, LTJG Zillinger will be stationed in Miami, Florida, and LTJG Darmody will report to Humboldt Bay, California.
Congratulations to both officers on this achievement. The 23rd FTS is proud to be part of this landmark moment in Air Force-Coast Guard aviation training!