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Commander Christopher “U-Turn” Montague

A native of Southlake, Texas, Commander Montague graduated from the United States Naval Academy in May 2008, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. CDR Montague was designated a Naval Aviator in June 2010, and he subsequently reported to the VFA-122 “Eagles” at NAS Lemoore, CA for initial training in the FA-18E/F Super Hornet.

CDR Montague’s first operational tour was with the “Redcocks” of VFA-22, where he deployed aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. At the end of this tour, CDR Montague was selected to attend United States Naval Test Pilot School, graduating in December 2015.

CDR Montague served as a Carrier Suitability project officer during his test tour in the VX-23 “Salty Dogs” aboard NAS Patuxent River, MD. While there, his main efforts focused on the fleet introduction of MAGIC CARPET, aircraft carrier Precision Approach Landing Systems, and Shake-Rattle-Roll LSO Instruction. Additionally, during this tour, he earned a Master’s of Science in Systems Engineering from John’s Hopkins University. CDR Montague completed his time with VX-23 in August 2018, reporting back to the VFA-22 “Redcocks” as a Department Head.

During his department head tour, CDR Montague deployed aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in support of Operations FREEDOM’s SENTINEL, INHERENT RESOLVE, and OCTAVE QUARTZ. Through that tour, he served as Safety, Administration, Maintenance, and Operations Department Heads.

Following his department head tour, he was a project officer and lead Navy member at VX-9 Det Nellis in Las Vegas, NV from July 2021 to March 2024. He was selected for the squadron command track in March 2022 and reported to the VFA-113 “Stingers” as the Executive Officer in September 2024.

CDR Montague has flown over 2100 hours across 18 different aircraft, including over 380 arrested landings. His awards include Strike/Flight Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and various other personal and unit decorations.

Last Updated: 4 October 2024

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