A native to the U.S. Navy, Commander Kenneth Kinghorn was born on Subic Naval Base, Philippines and lived overseas until attending Brigham Young University - Idaho, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Services Administration. He received his commission in the U.S. Navy through Officer Candidate School at Naval Station Newport, RI in June 2010. Upon commissioning, CDR Kinghorn reported to Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, FL for flight training. He earned his Naval Flight Officer wings in March of 2012 and reported to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 at NAS Whidbey Island for initial fleet training as an EA-18G Electronic Warfare Officer.

CDR Kinghorn began his operational flying in May 2013 with the “Shadowhawks” of VAQ-141 aboard Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan. He completed three deployments in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) and USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN 76).

Following his initial fleet tour in Japan, CDR Kinghorn reported to VX-9 det Nellis in March 2016 for duty as an Operational Test Director. He supported tests for both F/A-18 and EA-18 series aircraft weapons and systems as well as multiple joint tests for U.S. Air Force and Army platforms. CDR Kinghorn returned to the fleet as the Electronic Warfare Officer for Commander, Carrier Air Wing ONE aboard the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) in March 2019. He deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility and supported Operation FREEDOM’S SENTINEL.

CDR Kinghorn returned to NAS Whidbey Island in November 2021 and reported to the “Lancers” of VAQ-131 where he served as Administration, Operations, and Maintenance Department Head. He completed an expeditionary deployment with the “Lancers” to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility, participating in multiple joint exercises across the Pacific. Following his department head tour, CDR Kinghorn attended the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, RI where he graduated with a Master of Arts in Defense and Strategic Studies. He selected for squadron command in March 2024 and reported to VAQ-142 as Executive Officer in January 2026.

CDR Kinghorn has accumulated over 1,700 flight hours and over 300 carrier rides, including sorties in support of Operation FREEDOM’S SENTINEL. His military awards include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and various service awards and ribbons.

Last Updated: 27 January 2026