In the expansive tapestry of aviation history, few stories shine as brightly as that of Paul J. Waeghe, Jr., a distinguished flight engineer in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations. Recently marking an extraordinary 50 years of federal service, Jacksonville’s Flight Engineer, Waeghe’s journey is a testament to unwavering dedication and expertise, soaring to new heights with an impressive 23,000 flight hours logged on a P-3 aircraft.
Paul J. Waeghe, Jr’s aerial odyssey took flight in 1973 when he commenced his federal service with the U.S. Navy. Originating from Wyandotte, Michigan, he embarked on this journey within a P-3 training patrol squadron. Over the subsequent 26 years in the Navy, he ascended through the ranks, dedicating himself to units focused on the P-3 platform. With an illustrious career, he underwent nine deployments to diverse locations in Asia and Europe, amassing a wealth of invaluable experience.
Beyond the sheer number of flight hours, Paul J. Waeghe, Jr’s journey encapsulates a passion kindled in childhood. His father, a distinguished World War II Army and Air Force Veteran, infused in him a deep love for aviation. Reflecting on those formative years, Waeghe shared, “Even as a child, watching aircraft takeoff and land at Detroit Metro airport with my father, I always dreamed of flying.” The U.S. Navy provided the gateway to transform that childhood dream into a soaring reality.
Throughout his naval career, Waeghe held pivotal roles as a flight engineer instructor and evaluator. Later, he assumed the responsibilities of a flight engineer for a Navy executive transport detachment, where he piloted admirals on official Navy missions. Recalling significant junctures, Waeghe reminisced, “Shortly after my wedding in 1980, my wife and I discussed leaving the U.S. Navy.”
In the year 2000, Waeghe transitioned to CBP Air and Marine Operations, inaugurating a new chapter in his aviation narrative. For the past 23 years, he has been an integral part of CBP, presently serving as an instructor and senior flight engineer at the National Air Security Operations Center in Jacksonville.
By August 2023, Paul J. Waeghe, Jr had notched up an impressive 48 years as a flight engineer, amassing over 23,300 flight hours on a P-3 aircraft. Emblematic of his steadfast commitment, he officially commemorated 50 years of federal service in June 2024. Kraig A. Kamp, Director of National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville, extolled Waeghe’s unparalleled expertise: “Paul is a true professional, and his knowledge of the P-3 is unsurpassed. He has led an unparalleled career in aviation.”
As Paul J. Waeghe, Jr charts his course toward retirement in June 2024, his legacy reverberates not merely in flight hours but in the lives touched and a dedication to a mission that transcends the skies. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations stand fortified by stalwarts like Waeghe, ensuring the nation’s security through vigilant oversight in the air and at sea. His 50-year sojourn epitomizes a profound commitment to service, a guiding beacon for those who follow in the contrails of his illustrious aviation career.
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