Constellation (CV 64) - Naval Cruise Book

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EXECUTIVE OFFICER USS CONSTELLATION COMMANDER D.J. TAFT Commander Denis J. Taft graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1958. He was designated a Naval Aviator in November 1959 and assigned to VP-46. In July 1963 he reported to VP-31 as a P-3A instructor pilot. Commander Taft reported to the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in July 1964. From June 1965 to October 1 967 he attended the Cranfield Institute of Technology in England, earning a Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Commander Taft next reported to VAH-123 for training in the A-3 Skywarrior. In July he joined the VAH-10 Vikings and made two Southeast Asia deployments, aboard USS HANCOCK and USS CORAL SEA. Commander Taft graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in June 1971. He was then assigned to the Flight Test Division of the Naval Air Test Center as head of the Flight Qualities and Performance Branch. In July 1974, after completing EA-6B training in VAQ-129, Commander Taft reported to the Scorpions of VAQ-132 as Executive Officer. He assumed command of VAQ-132 in July 1975. Commander Taft was assigned to the staff of Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force for six months prior to assuming command of VAQ-129 in March 1977. Commander Taft reported to USS CONSTELLATION in August of 1978 as Executive Officer. Commander Taft has logged over 5400 flight hours in 33 different aircraft models. His awards include three Air Medals, the Navy Unit Commendation and a Meritorious Unit Citation. 18