Commander Michael Shaughnessy

Commanding Officer, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195

26 October 2020 A native of Rochester, Minnesota, Commander Shaughnessy graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture.  He completed flight training with VT-27 and VT-21, earning his Naval Aviator wings in February 2009.  CDR Shaughnessy completed initial fleet training in the F/A-18E/F with VFA-122 at NAS Lemoore, CA.
 
CDR Shaughnessy joined the “Sunliners” of VFA-81 in December 2009.  He made three deployments aboard USS CARL VINSON to South America, the Indo-Pacific region, and the Arabian Gulf, supporting both Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and NEW DAWN.
 
In April 2013, CDR Shaughnessy reported to VX-9 at NAWS China Lake, CA.  During his time with the “Vampires,” he served as an Operational Test Director and Safety Department Head while flying the F/A-18C/D, F/A-18E/F, and EA-18G.  He then served as Flag Lieutenant to Commander, Carrier Strike Group 15 in San Diego, CA.
 
CDR Shaughnessy joined the “Wildcats” of VFA-131 as a Department Head in September 2017.  He served as the Safety Officer, Maintenance Officer, and Operations Officer and deployed aboard USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER in support of Operation FREEDOM’S SENTINEL.  Following his Department Head tour, CDR Shaughnessy attended the Naval War College in Newport, RI and graduated in 2021 with a Master of Arts in Defense and Strategic Studies.
 
CDR Shaughnessy has accumulated over 2,300 flight hours and over 530 carrier arrested landings.  His personal awards are a testament to the dedication and teamwork of his colleagues throughout his career.