Pax River’s HX-21 command changes hands

Sideboys render honors to Cmdr. Timothy Burke, chief test pilot assigned to the Blackjacks of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21, during a change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. Burke relieved Lt. Col. John Neville as commanding officer of HX-21. (U.S. Navy photo)

Patuxent River, MD – Command of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (HX) 21 changed hands during a ceremony held at Naval Air Station Patuxent River October 23.

Cmdr. Timothy Burke relieved Lt. Col. John Neville as commanding officer of HX-21 during the change of command ceremony in the squadron’s hangar.

During his farewell remarks, Neville recognized the hard work of the Sailors, Marines, and civilians at HX-21.

“The credit and recognition for the accolades I’ve received aren’t because of what I’ve done, it’s because of what the people of HX-21 and the Black Jack family have done,” said Neville.

Neville, who was previously stationed at HX-21 from June 2005 to December 2008, has commanded HX-21 since April 2013. Neville also served as Chief Test Pilot from October 2011 until he assumed command.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the hard work, embodied character, competence and compassion set out as guiding principles,” said Neville.

Burke has held the Chief Test Pilot position at HX-21 since March 2013. Burke has more than 2,600 hours of flight time in 30 different aircraft, including more than 1,078 in the MH-60S. This is also Burke’s second tour of duty at HX-21.

“I am truly honored to be given this opportunity to lead the Blackjacks of HX-21,” said Burke. “We have an exceptional group of people who accomplish this vast work against many challenges.”

A 1997 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Burke has been assigned to three different helicopter squadrons including HX-1, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 at Naval Station Norfolk, and the United States Naval Test Pilot School.
“Our squadron’s greatest achievements are not defined solely by what we have done, but also what we will do,” said Burke. “May our best days always be ahead of us.”