Commander Benjamin Hendricks

Commanding Officer, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4

11 April 2022 A native of Stephen, Minnesota, Commander Benjamin Hendricks graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2004, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.  He was designated a Naval Aviator at NAS Whiting Field in March 2006, and completed initial training in the H-60F/H at Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron TEN in 2007.
 
His first sea tour includes an assignment with the “Dragonslayers” of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron ELEVEN in Jacksonville, FL.  He deployed aboard the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in support of Operations IRAQI and ENDURING FREEDOM and served as Line Division, Assistant Operations, and Personnel Officer. CDR Hendricks reported to USS Makin Island (LHD 8) on September 2012, homeported in San Diego, California.  While aboard, he deployed in support of operations in U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility and served as V-3 Division Officer, V-1 Division Officer, Aircraft Handler, and Mini Boss.
 
Ashore assignments include a return to HS 10 as a flight instructor.  He served as the Tactics Officer, NATOPS Evaluator/Program Manager, and Standardization Officer. CDR Hendricks returned to an aviation command as a Department Head with the “Red Lions” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIFTEEN as Safety Officer in April 2015.  He was then assigned to the “Blackjacks” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO ONE as Operations Officer to complete a split department head tour. Following his department head tour, he reported to Navy Pentagon, Investment Division (FMB-2), Financial Management and Comptroller (FM&C) in April 2018, and was assigned a budget portfolio to include C4I, various research and development efforts, and maritime, aviation, and weapons spares.
 
He was selected for squadron command in March 2019 and reported to HSC-4 as Executive Officer in December 2020.
 
CDR Hendricks has accumulated over 2,200 hours in Navy H-60 aircraft.  His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2 awards) and various service awards and ribbons.