Rear Adm. Doug "V8" Verissimo
Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic
Rear Adm. Doug “V8” Verissimo, is a native of Falmouth, Massachusetts. He is a 1987 graduate of Cape Cod Community College with an Associate's degree in Arts and Science. Immediately following graduation, he enlisted in the Naval Aviation Cadet (NAVCAD) Program. Upon completion of flight training, he earned both his commission and designation as a naval aviator in July 1989. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from California State University, Fresno, California, and a Master of Science in Campaign Planning and Strategy from the Joint Forces Staff College. He is also a graduate of the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program.
His operational assignments include “Fist of the Fleet” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25, catapult and arresting gear officer aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74); department head for the “Blue Blasters” of VFA-34, command of the “Gunslingers” of VFA-105; executive officer aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), and commanding officer of USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).
Verissimo’s shore duty assignments include instructor duty at VFA-125, a demonstration pilot for U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, Blue Angels; executive assistant to Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic and Joint Staff J3, where he served as joint force coordination/strategic plans division chief.
Verissimo’s flag tours include deputy director for operations, Operations Team 2 (J3), Commander Carrier Strike Group 9, Director Assessment Division (N81), and Director, Maritime Operations, U.S. Fleet Forces Command.
He assumed his duties as Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic in August 2023.
His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and various other personal, unit, and service awards.