Commander Kyle McDaniel

Commanding Officer, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23

27 October 2020 A native of Coronado, California, CDR Kyle McDaniel graduated from the University of Southern California in 2001 with a BS in Kinesiology with a pre-medicine emphasis.  He completed a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology in 2003 at the University of West Florida.  Upon graduation, he reported to NAS Pensacola for Officer Candidate School.  He began flight training with the “Boomers” of VT-27 and earned his Naval Aviator Wings with the “Vigilant Eagles” of HT-18 in January 2006.
 
CDR McDaniel began operational flying in October 2006 as a plank-owner of the “Seaknights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO TWO (HSC-22). While a “Seaknight,” he deployed aboard USS KEARSARGE (LHD 6) and USNS SUPPLY (AOE 6) supporting Operations IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM and counter-piracy operations off the Horn of Africa.  Post deployments, he served as the squadron’s Assistant Operations Officer and Quality Assurance Officer.
 
Following his tour with HSC-22, CDR McDaniel reported to HSC-2 as an MH-60S instructor pilot.  He served as the command's Safety Officer and Assistant Operations Officer. During this tour, CDR McDaniel completed a Master’s degree in Global Leadership at the University of San Diego. While at HSC-22, he was selected as the 2013 recipient of the Commander Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic Navy and Marine Association Leadership Award.
 
In July of 2012, CDR McDaniel reported to USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD 6), forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan, where he served as Aircraft Handling Officer, Mini Boss, and Air Boss. 
CDR McDaniel returned to Norfolk for his department head tour at Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron SEVEN (HSC-7).  He served as the Officer in Charge of the combat logistics detachment aboard USNS ARCTIC (AOE 8) and the squadron’s Safety and Operations Officer deployed aboard USS EISENHOWER (CVN 69) in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE.
 
In 2017, CDR McDaniel was assigned to the Joint Staff J35 directorate, supporting Global Force Management.  He served as a Secretary of Defense Orders Writer and Executive Assistant to the Vice Deputy Director for Regional Operations. 
 
CDR McDaniel’s personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals, and various campaign and unit awards.  He has accumulated over 2,500 flight hours.