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Commander Frank D. Willis
Commanding Officer, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137
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A native of Navarre, Florida, Commander Willis graduated from Savannah State University in 2007, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. CDR Willis was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps program and reported to NAS Pensacola, FL for flight training in August 2007. He earned his wings of gold in January 2010. In May 2010, CDR Willis reported to the VAQ 129 “Vikings” for initial fleet training as an EA-6B Pilot.
CDR Willis began his operational flying in July 2011 with the “Lancers” of VAQ 131. While a “Lancer”, he made an around-the-world combat deployment aboard USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72), participating in Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. During this tour he transitioned to the EA-18G Growler.
CDR Willis reported to the Fleet Replacement Squadron as an instructor in February 2015. As an instructor he served as a Schedules Officer, AEA instructor, and Assistant Carrier Qualification Phase Head. After his instructor tour, he joined Carrier Air Wing TWO as an Air Wing LSO in February 2017. As an Air Wing LSO he completed two Western Pacific deployments aboard USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70).
CDR Willis reported to the “Wizards” of VAQ-133 for his Department Head tour in June 2018. During his tour with the Wizards he completed an around-the-world combat deployment aboard USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) in support of Operations FREEDOM SENTINAL and INHERENT RESOLVE. As a Department Head, he served as the Operations, Maintenance, Administration, and Safety Officer.
Following his department head tour, CDR Willis reported to Navy Personnel Command to serve as the VAQ, NAWDC, and VT NFO Placement Officer. He selected for squadron command in March 2021 and reported to VAQ-137 as Executive Officer in October 2022.
CDR Willis has accumulated over 2,000 flight hours, 36 combat missions, and over 500 carrier arrested landings. His awards include the Strike/Flight Air Medal (1 awards), Navy Commendation Medal (4 awards), Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2 awards), Army Achievement Medal (with “C” device), and various service awards and ribbons.
Last Updated: 10 September 2024
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