Commander Ron “RA-RA” Herrera is originally from Espanola, NM. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Electronics Technician in September 2000, ultimately earning his commission through the Seaman to Admiral-21 program. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of New Mexico (2007), a Master of Military Operational Art and Science from the Air 
Command and Staff College (2022), and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College (2024) where he graduated with Highest Distinction and was recognized as the College of Naval Warfare Distinguished Graduate. He is a fully Joint Qualified Officer (Level III). 

Commander Herrera earned his “Wings of Gold” in 2009 after completing flight training with the Red Knights of Training Squadron THREE (VT-3) and the 32nd Flying Training Squadron (32 FTS). Selected for the TACAMO mission, he received his initial flight training in the E-6B with the Roughnecks of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron SEVEN (VQ-7) before reporting for his first operational flying tour with the World Famous Ironmen of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron THREE (VQ-3). While at VQ-3, he served as Pilot Evaluator, Mission Commander Evaluator, and NATOPS Assistant Department Head. In 2016, he reported to USS George Washington (CVN-73) for duty as an Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer (Shooter) and V1 Division Officer. In 2018, he returned to the Ironmen as a Department Head, serving as the Administrative Officer and Operations Officer. 

His assignments ashore include a tour as a Fleet Replacement Squadron Instructor with VQ-7 where he also served as Weapons and Tactics Instructor, Fleet Introduction Pilot, and Operations Officer. In 2021, he reported to the staff of United States Strategic Command’s Joint Force Maritime Component Commander (JFMCC STRAT) in Norfolk, VA as the CTF-114 Current/Future Operations Officer (J33/J35) and TACAMO Branch Chief (J31T). 

Commander Herrera assumed the role of Executive Officer of VQ-3 in May 2025, leading 748 Sailors, Chiefs, and Officers at Tinker AFB, Travis AFB, and Offutt AFB. He has accumulated over 2,000 flight hours in the RQ-2B, T-34C, T-1A, and E-6B aircraft. His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various campaign, unit, and service awards. 
 

Last Updated: 15 May 2025