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Comman​der Samuel R. Aldridge

A native of Redding, CA, Commander Aldridge graduated from Colorado Mesa University in 1997, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science/Criminal Justice. CDR Aldridge was commissioned through Officer Candidate School at NAS Pensacola, FL and began flight training in May 2003. He earned his Naval Flight Officer Wings in November 2004. In January 2005, CDR Aldridge reported to the Fleet Replacement Squadron, VP-30 “Pro’s Nest” for initial training as a P-3C Navigator.

CDR Aldridge began his operational flying in July 2005 with the “Fighting Marlins” of VP-40. While a Marlin, he deployed to 5th Fleet in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and 7th Fleet. He was designated the squadron NFO NATOPS Officer, a Mission Commander and a Weapons and Tactics Instructor by the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Weapons School (MPRWS).

CDR Aldridge reported to the CPRW-10 Wing Training Unit in January 2009 where he taught and evaluated P-3 tactics. He was the Advanced Readiness Program Manager and led squadron Operational Readiness Evaluations required for deployment certification. CDR Aldridge also qualified as a watch officer at the Wing’s Tactical Operations Center.

In June 2011, CDR Aldridge reported to the CPRW-10 DET Fleet Support Unit where he served as a P-3 Littoral Surveillance Radar System (LSRS) Instructor Tactical Officer. He deployed to 5th and 7th Fleets as a part of detachments flying LSRS missions. During the tour, he assisted with the re-write of the LSRS NATOPS manual and authored the LSRS P3QS endorsed by the MPRWS and used throughout the Fleet.

​​​​​​​​CDR Aldridge re-designated as a Reserve Full-Time Support officer in January 2014 and reported to the “Totems” of VP-69 for his Department Head tour. He served as the Training, Operations and Maintenance Officer as well as a squadron assistant NATOPS instructor supporting a deployment to 7th Fleet in 2016.

In February 2017, CDR Aldridge reported to the Naval War College to enroll in the Master’s degree program. He graduated with distinction in March 2018 with a degree in Defense and Strategic Studies.

CDR Aldridge reported to Commander Naval Air Force Reserve in April 2018 and served as the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force Program Manager. CDR Aldridge reported to VP-69 as the Executive Officer in December 2020.

CDR Aldridge has accumulated over 2,200 flight hours. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (2 awards), and Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 awards) and various service awards and ribbons.

Last Updated: 21 August 2023


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