A native of Moultonborough, New Hampshire, Commander Kevin “RW” Ringelstein is the proud grandson of two World War II Navy veterans. He graduated with distinction from the US Naval Academy in 2007, earning a Bachelor of Science in History. He also holds a Master of Arts degree in History from Old Dominion University and a Masters in European Union Studies from the University of Parma in Italy. He earned his wings of gold in April of 2009. 

CDR Ringelstein began his operational flying in 2010 with the HSC-9 “Tridents” where he deployed aboard the USS GEORGE H. W. BUSH (CVN 77) and USNS SACAGAWEA (T-AKE 2) in support of operations ENDURING FREEDOM and NEW DAWN. In 2012, he deployed on the USS SAN ANTONIO (LPD 17) and provided Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief (HADR) to the NY/NJ areas following Hurricane Sandy. In 2013, he reported to the HSC-2 “Fleet Angels” as an FRS Instructor Pilot. In 2015, he was recognized as the squadron’s Instructor Pilot of the Year. 

In 2016, CDR Ringelstein reported aboard the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72) as the ship’s Assistant Navigator (ANAV). He deployed with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) in support of operation INHERENT RESOLVE and provided HADR support to Florida following Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. 

In 2018, CDR Ringelstein reported to the HSC-4 “Black Knights” for his Department Head tour where he served as the Maintenance Officer and Officer-In-Charge (OIC) of HADR operations to the SoCal area in support of the USNS MERCY (T-AH 19). In 2019, he received the peer-selected Navy and Marine Corps Association Leadership Award. In 2020, CDR Ringelstein was selected for the Olmsted Scholar Program and served as an Olmsted Scholar in Parma, Italy from 2021-2023.

CDR Ringelstein has over 2,000 rotary wing flight hours. He holds various personal, unit, and campaign awards. He is honored to be a part of a Naval Aviation community that protects, defends, and saves the lives of others. He is the loving husband of Kate and the father of three beautiful children, Adelaide, August, and Dakota.