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Morris County native serves as second-in-command of U.S. Navy Osprey squadron

SAN DIEGO, CA – Cmdr. John Rashap, a native of Randolph Township serves the U.S. Navy as the executive officer of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM-50).

Rashap graduated from Randolph High School in 2003 and from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2007. He joined the Navy 17 years ago. Today, Rashap serves as a naval aviator.

“I had a strong desire to serve my country, while also seeking adventure and rewarding experiences,” said Rashap.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Randolph Township.

“I learned at a young age the value in diversity of experience and thought,” said Rashap. “Each person has good ideas, and as a leader, it is imperative that we empower everyone to bring good ideas to the table to make us a stronger fighting force.”

According to Navy officials, members of VRM-50 fly and maintain the CMV-22B Osprey, a vertical takeoff and landing tilt-rotor aircraft. VRM aircraft have increased operational range, faster cargo loading and unloading, increased survivability and enhanced communications compared to the C-2A Greyhound.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Rashap serves a Navy that operates forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Rashap has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“One of my proudest accomplishments was graduating from U.S. Naval Test Pilot School,” said Rashap. “It was a very difficult 11-month syllabus where I flew approximately 25 different aircraft and studied the science and engineering behind flight. This experience has also served me well in the fleet by modifying the way I approach problems and think of solutions.”

Rashap can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving the Navy has brought a great amount of reward to me, and pride to my family,” said Rashap. “I will continue to serve until my family needs a change.”

Rashap is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“My father deserves the most credit,” said Rashap. “From a very young age, he knew I would be a great candidate for the Naval Academy and to serve in the armed forces.”

Jay Edwards

Born and raised in Northwest NJ, Jay has a degree in Communications and has had a life-long interest in local radio and various styles of music. Jay has held numerous jobs over the years such as stunt car driver, bartender, voice-over artist, traffic reporter (award winning), NY Yankee maintenance crewmember and peanut farm worker. His hobbies include mountain climbing, snowmobiling, cooking, performing stand-up comedy and he is an avid squirrel watcher. Jay has been a guest on America’s Morning Headquarters,program on The Weather Channel, and was interviewed by Sam Champion.

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