Aviation Ordnancemen (AOs) in the US Navy are a highly skilled and specialized group of enlisted sailors who are responsible for the handling, storage, maintenance, and operation of all types of naval aircraft ordnance, including missiles, bombs, torpedoes, and other weapons systems. We created the US Navy Aviation Ordnanceman IYAOYAS Rating Coin in their honor.
Some of the main duties of AOs include:
- Inspecting, testing, and maintaining aircraft ordnance and related equipment
- Loading and unloading weapons on aircraft
- Operating and maintaining aircraft ordnance handling and storage equipment
- Calibrating and aligning weapons systems
- Troubleshooting and repairing weapons systems
- Participating in aircraft launch and recovery operations
AOs are also responsible for ensuring the safety of their fellow sailors and aircraft by adhering to strict safety procedures and protocols. They are also responsible for keeping accurate records of all ordnance and weapons systems.
To become an AO, individuals must complete a rigorous training program and pass a series of qualifications and certifications. The training includes classroom instruction, hands-on training and on the job training. AOs must also pass a series of physical fitness tests and maintain high standards of personal conduct and military bearing.
Warheads On Foreheads
“Warheads on Foreheads” is a phrase that is often used by Aviation Ordnancemen (AOs) in the US Navy to refer to their role in ensuring that aircraft weapons systems are properly loaded, armed, and ready for use in combat or training operations. The phrase is a way of emphasizing the importance of their work and the seriousness of their responsibility to ensure that aircraft are equipped with the necessary ordnance to complete their mission.
As AOs are responsible for the handling, storage, maintenance, and operation of all types of naval aircraft ordnance, including missiles, bombs, torpedoes, and other weapons systems. They must ensure that all ordnance is in proper working condition and ready for use at all times, and that all safety procedures and protocols are followed. They must work closely with aircrew and other members of the aircraft’s support team to ensure that all ordnance is properly loaded, armed, and ready for use.
It’s worth to mention that the phrase “Warheads on Foreheads” should be used in a professional context and not be taken lightly, as the handling and operation of ordnance can be dangerous and requires a high level of skill and attention to detail.
IYAOYAS
“IYAOYAS” is an acronym that stands for “If You Ain’t Ordnance, You Ain’t Shit” which is often used by Aviation Ordnancemen (AOs) in the US Navy. It is a phrase that is used to convey the sense of pride and professionalism that AOs have in their work and to emphasize the importance of their role in the Navy. The phrase is intended to be used as a way for AOs to identify and bond with one another, and to recognize the unique skills and knowledge that they possess.
The phrase is a way of emphasizing the importance of AOs’ work and the seriousness of their responsibility to ensure that aircraft are equipped with the necessary ordnance to complete their mission. As AOs are responsible for the handling, storage, maintenance, and operation of all types of naval aircraft ordnance, including missiles, bombs, torpedoes, and other weapons systems. They must ensure that all ordnance is in proper working condition and ready for use at all times, and that all safety procedures and protocols are followed.
