CVW-17 2022 *WATER BUFFALO* Patch

(Another AV8RSTUFF Creation): This patch was created for CVW-17 for the beginning of their 2022 WESTPAC Cruise. The backstory: CVW-17 was supposed to get onboard the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for C2X in late September when we got word that there was JP-5 contamination in the water as they transited from Bremerton to San Diego. Squadron personnel were assured that the water was safe to drink, therefore we all headed to "San Dog" on schedule. When we got to the pier/ship, there were water buffalos on the pier because the potable water was still contaminated and smelling like fuel. Each day we stayed in San Diego, they tested the water and flushed the systems until it was “safe”. Meanwhile, we were caught doing special inspections in port with some squadrons sending people back to Lemoore to do "specials" just to fly them back to SD. We were in port for at least an extra 7-8 days just burning through cash to NOT stay onboard....eating, partying, and definitely not drinking the water. Eventually we got underway and there was still a small hint of fuel smell in the water that eventually subsided. This patch was created to commemorate that event and DOES come with velcro attached.