Commander Erik “SYPHIN” Dill was born in Collinsville, Illinois, and enlisted in the Navy in July of 2001.  After attending boot camp in Great Lakes he attended CTM “A” School, Corry Station in Pensacola, Florida.  In July of 2002, he reported to Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) San Diego, CA where he served as a network systems administrator and maintenance technician, advanced to CTM2, transitioned to the CTN rate and was selected to the STA-21 commissioning program.

While attending college he advanced to CTN1 and graduated Summa Cum Laude in December of 2007, earning his bachelor’s of science in Computer Information Systems.

CDR Dill then attended flight school in Pensacola, Florida, Milton, Florida, and Meridian, Mississippi, earning his designation as a Naval Aviator in December of 2010.  In January 2011, he reported to Strike Fighter Squadron ONE TWO TWO (VFA-122) and earned his qualification in the F/A-18F, and subsequently reported to the “Black Aces” of Strike Fighter Squadron FOUR ONE (VFA-41) in February of 2012 where he deployed aboard the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) in support of combat operations in Afghanistan.  In January 2015, CDR Dill reported to the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) where he served as an instructor and the US Navy and Marine Corps subject matter expert on the Advanced Tactical Training Program.  In October 2017, CDR Dill reported to the “Stingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron ONE ONE THREE (VFA-113) as Training Officer and deployed aboard the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71) in support of combat operations in Iraq and Syria.  In September 2019, he reported to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron ONE FOUR SEVEN (VFA-147) where he served as a Department Head and completed the inaugural Navy F-35C deployment aboard the USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) in support of operations in the South China Sea.  In February 2022, CDR Dill reported to the “Rough Raiders” of Strike Fighter Squadron ONE TWO FIVE (VFA-125) where he served as the F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron Training Officer.  CDR Dill reported to the “Warhawks” of Strike Fighter Squadron NINE SEVEN (VFA-97) in February 2025 as the Executive Officer. 

CDR Dill met his wife of 23 years while they were both attending “A” School at Corry Station, and together they have four children.  

CDR Dill has accumulated over 2,400 flight hours and 400 carrier arrested landings in the F-16A/B, FA-18A/B/C/D/E/F, and F-35C.  His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (One Strike/Flight Awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (Three Awards), as well as various other personal and unit awards.

Last Updated: 27 February 2025