Daniel Conti received Navy commendation, promotion

Vernon — United States Navy Aviation Technician Daniel M. Conti, of Vernon, was recently promoted to Aviation Technician Petty Officer 3rd Class (AT3). His brother, Joseph Conti, did the honors of “pinning” him in a ceremony held at the U.S. Navy base in Whidbey Island, Wash. It is there that Conti serves his country as a member of the Patrol Squadron Four Six (VP-46) Grey Knights. The Grey Knights are the oldest American maritime aircraft Patrol Squadron in the U.S. Navy (established in 1931) and have participated in every major U.S. military conflict since the squadron’s inception, earning it the title “The Oldest And The Best.” On Nov. 9, Conti received the Blue Jacket of the Quarter Award. This honor is bestowed only upon the most deserving sailors and is a testament to their character and perseverance. Conti will receive a Letter of Commendation for this achievement. For a sailor to be awarded such a title he or she must be nominated by his or her respective department and then go in front of a board of several First Class Petty Officers to answer a variety of questions which include military requirements and regulations, Naval history, leadership and other topics. Conti awaits deployment some time in June 2010. Conti is the son of Joseph and Donna Conti of Vernon and graduated from Vernon High School in 2006.