CDR Neil J. Toohey, a native of Islip Terrace, New York, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering.  He holds a Masters Degree in Systems Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterrey, California.  After completing flight training in Pensacola, Florida, CDR Toohey was “winged” as a Naval Aviator in July 2006.

CDR Toohey’s operational assignments include Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO THREE (HSC-23) where he deployed aboard USNS RAINIER (T-AOE 7) providing aviation logistics during a Fifth Fleet deployment in support of OPERATIONS IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM.  He was subsequently deployed with the 2515th Naval Air Ambulance Detachment in Basra, Iraq providing 24-hour MEDEVAC coverage and earning the Naval Helicopter Association “Aircrew of the Year Award.”  Additionally, he has served as “Air Officer” aboard USS MAKIN ISLAND (LHD 8). 

As a Department Head, CDR Toohey served as Operations Officer and Maintenance Officer with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron SEVEN (HSC-7) deploying with USS EISENHOWER (CVN 69) to Fifth Fleet and aboard the USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3) for Defense Support of Civil Authorities during hurricane relief operations.

Ashore, CDR Toohey served as a Fleet Replacement Squadron Instructor Pilot with Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron TEN (HS-10) and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron THREE (HSC-3).  Most recently, CDR Toohey served as the J-35 Deputy Division Chief for Readiness and action officer on the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the National Military Command Center.

CDR Toohey has accumulated more than 2,600 flight hours in six different aircraft. His decorations include the Joint Meritorious Service Medal, two Air Medals (Strike/Flight), and various campaign, unit, and service awards.

Last Updated: 3 August 2023