Commander DiMarco grew up in Southern California and Western Montana. He graduated from the University of Montana in 2005. After four years of coaching college football, he commissioned via Officer Candidate School in 2009. He trained at Naval Air Station Pensacola and Vance Air Force Base before earning his wings at Naval Air Station Kingsville.

After learning to fly the EA-18G Growler at VAQ-129, Commander DiMarco reported to the “Zappers” of VAQ-130 for a combat deployment to the Middle East aboard USS HARRY S. TRUMAN. For their work in Afghanistan and the Arabian Sea, the Zappers earned a Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Battle “E”, the Radford Award, and Top Hook. DiMarco later deployed three times to the Pacific – twice ashore as the Training Officer for VAQ-138 and once afloat as a Department Head for VAQ-136.

Commander DiMarco earned designation as a Growler Tactics Instructor in 2014. He received orders to the Electronic Attack Weapons School, where he served as the Advanced Tactics and Capabilities Lead, as well as the subject matter expert for air-to-air and maritime employment. He holds master’s degrees from the Naval Postgraduate School and the Naval War College, where he graduated with highest distinction. His published work appeared in Proceedings and Acquisition.

Naval Air Forces – Pacific named then Lieutenant DiMarco its Pilot of the Year for 2018. He received both the AEA Integration Award and the ALQ-99 Excellence Award for transitioning new weapons and capabilities to fleet squadrons. His military decorations include an Air Medal (Strike/Flight), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards), and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 awards). Throughout his naval service, Commander DiMarco has benefited from the steadfast support of his amazing husband, Dustin.

 

Last Updated: 7 August 2024