Captain Brian “G” Kesselring is a native of Fargo, North Dakota. In 2000 he earned his Bachelor’s degree with majors in Physics, Mathematics, and Business from Concordia College while competing in basketball and track & field. He earned his Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies, and Halsey Alfa AQD, from the Naval War College in 2016. In 2001 he earned his commission from Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida, and was designated a Naval Aviator in 2003.

Captain Kesselring’s fleet assignments include tours with the VFA-105 “Gunslingers”, the VFA-14 "Tophatters," the VFA-31 “Tomcatters,” CVW-1 Team “Tarbox,” and CO of the VFA-81 “Sunliners.” Across seven deployments he has served aboard the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75), the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74), the USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH (CVN 77), and the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71) in support of Operations IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM, NEW DAWN and INHERENT RESOLVE as well as operations within the EUCOM and INDOPACOM AORs.

His shore assignments include serving as an instructor pilot at the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, “TOPGUN,” and serving as the Commanding Officer and Flight Leader of the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, “The Blue Angels.” 

CAPT Kesselring has accumulated more than 5,000 flight hours and over 800 carrier-arrested landings. His decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Strike/Flight Air Medal (six awards), Navy Commendation Medals (three awards), Navy Achievement Medal (two awards) and various personal, unit and service awards. His personal decorations and unit citations are attributed to the outstanding men and women he has served with throughout his career.

Captain Kesselring reported to Carrier Air Wing FIVE in July of 2023.

Last Updated: 22 December 2023