US Navy apologizes after pilot draws ‘obscene’ image in the sky over Washington

Thanks to movies like “Top Gun,” we’re all familiar with a few of the ways fighter pilots get their kicks.  Maverick, of course, got himself into trouble on more than one occasion for buzzing the tower, for instance – each time earning a tongue lashing from his command.  You might be tempted to think that such immaturity and bravado has no place in real Navy aviation, but pictures surfacing all over social media on Thursday afternoon would seem to suggest differently…

That’s right, according to multiple sources, a U.S. Navy pilot flying in an undisclosed platform of fighter jet took to the skies above Okanogan County, Washington… and drew a penis in the sky.

“The Navy holds its aircrew to the highest standards and we find this absolutely unacceptable, of zero training value and we are holding the crew accountable.”  A Navy statement released to local news outlet KREM2 in Washington.

Based on the common aircraft fielded by the nearby Whidbey Island Naval base, it seems likely that the massive doodle was drawn by an EA-18G Growler.

At least one resident has formally complained, as she was reportedly upset about having to explain the obscene form of sky writing to her two young sons, though admittedly, the majority of the public response on social media platforms has been of the comical variety.  However unprofessional, it seems highly unlikely the pilot had ill intentions when going about his work.

“The most monumental thing to happen in omak. A penis in the sky.” One Twitter user said alongside an image of the drawing.

That same local news outlet, which chose not to show the images on its broadcast citing obscenity, also contacted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in hopes of learning more about the type of aircraft involved in the incident, or the identity of the pilot.  According to an official statement, the FAA is not pursuing any form of investigation. The agency, which is responsible for regulating civil aviation within the United States, explained that their hands are tied unless the incident poses a safety to risk to the public or other aviators; adding that they “cannot police morality.”

While most residents met the unusual stunt with a sense of humor, it seems unlikely that the command at the nearby Naval Air Station Whidbey Island will.  While not a court-martial worthy offense, the pilot will probably face some form of non-judicial punishment for the stunt.

Images courtesy of Twitter