VFA-101 celebrates Navy's 237th birthday Published Oct. 25, 2012 By Lt. Jordan Enete VFA-101 Public Affairs Officer EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The "Grim Reapers" of Strike Fighter Squadron 101, the Navy's first F-35C squadron, and their families celebrated the Navy's 237th birthday Oct. 13 at Post'l Point here. Since 1972, when the Chief of Naval Operations authorized Oct.13 as the Navy's birthday, each CNO has encouraged a Navy-wide celebration of this occasion to enhance a greater appreciation of naval heritage and to provide a positive influence toward pride and professionalism in the naval service. In his birthday message to the fleet, Secretary to the Navy Ray Mabus, sent his best wishes to Sailors and spoke about the contributions made by the Navy, past to present. "This year's celebration of our 237th birthday is highlighted by anniversaries that have defined us as the greatest maritime war fighting force in history," he said, referencing the bicentennial of the War of 1812, the 70th anniversary of Guadalcanal and the 50th anniversary of the Cuban Missile Crisis," he said. "These events have shown the contrasts of our modest beginnings with the original six frigates at the start of the 19th century to today's 21st century modern fleet." VFA-101 celebrated the occasion with a cake-cutting ceremony, awards presentations and a cookout. In keeping with naval tradition, the oldest and youngest Sailors in attendance, Master Chief Petty Officer Daniel Secunda and Petty Officer 3rd Class Sarah Lambert, cut the birthday cake with a ceremonial sword.