A native of Kershaw, South Carolina and Forsyth, Illinois, Commander Kevin Sartain graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2006 earning a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering.
Upon earning his wings as a Naval Aviator in July 2008, CDR Sartain reported to the “Gladiators” of VFA-106 for initial fleet training as an FA-18 replacement pilot. CDR Sartain’s first operational assignment was with the “Swordsmen” of VFA-32 deploying in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
At the conclusion of this tour, CDR Sartain was selected to attend the Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor Course with follow-on orders to remain as a TOPGUN instructor. Thereafter he returned to VFA-32 as Training Officer from 2015 to 2017 and deployed in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE. CDR Sartain then joined the “Checkmates” of VFA-211 as a Department Head in March 2017. While a Checkmate, he deployed twice supporting Operation INHERENT RESOLVE and NATO operations in the Norwegian Sea while serving as the Administrative Officer, Operations Officer and Maintenance Officer. CDR Sartain was recognized as the 2020 Michael G. Hoff Attack Aviator of the Year for his time with the “Checkmates”.
Following his department head tour, CDR Sartain was selected to the Fleet Scholar Education Program, earning a Master’s in Public Affairs from the Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government in 2021. He checked in as Executive Officer of the VFA-41 “Black Aces” on 20 March 2022. He assumed command as Commanding Officer of the VFA-41 on 2 June 2023.
CDR Sartain has accumulated over 2,800 flight hours and 500 carrier arrested landings. His personal awards include the Strike/Flight Air Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), and Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various campaign and unit awards and citations.
He is married to the former Ms. Heather Dale of Forsyth, Illinois and is the proud father to Lillian and Harvey.
 

Last Updated: 22 June 2023