Unique winging class at NASM

MERIDIAN, Miss. - The ceremonial "Wings of Gold" ceremony marks the transition from trainee to aviator. For some, the journey is memorable; for others historic. Anneliese Marie Satz was introduced as Naval Air Station Meridian's first female Marine since 2015. "We do have more females than ever in the Marine Corps aviation,” said the Marine first lieutenant. “I am surprised that there weren't more females.” Becoming a pilot almost never happened. She initially entered the Marines with a ground contract, but picked up flight at Basic School. This unique group of WoG recipients included five French aviators. NASM is a home training base for would-be pilots from overseas, but the numbers were uncommon. "I was well prepared,” said French Lt. j.g. Vincent Biellmann. The U.S. and (his second home) Meridian was a culture shock, he said, but well worth it. NASM is home to Training Air Wing One and two training squadrons – VT-7 and 9. (Source: WTOK 05/04/18)