Commodore
Capt. Edward Johnson

A native of Arlington, Virginia, Capt. Edward Johnson graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1997 and earned a master’s degree in Systems Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2013. Johnson began flight training in September of 1997 and was designated as a naval aviator in May of 1999.
 
Upon completion of UH-3H Fleet Replacement Pilot Training in November 1999, Johnson reported to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC) 2, Naval Air Station (NAS) Norfolk, Virginia, for his initial sea tour. Between 1999 and 2003 Johnson served as the Detachment Two operations officer in the Fifth fleet area of responsibility and as the squadron’s quality assurance officer.
 
Subsequent sea duty assignments include a tour as safety officer aboard USS Saipan (LHA-2), plankowner of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22 and department head at Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. After screening for command, Johnson served as the executive and commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28.
 
Ashore, Johnson served as an MH-60S fleet replacement squadron instructor pilot at HSC-3, and as a joint operations planner at the Joint Enabling Capabilities Command where he deployed in support of Operation Pacific Passage and numerous USCENTCOM exercises. Following command, Johnson served on the Chief of Naval Operations staff as the OPNAV N98 MQ-8 Fire Scout requirements officer and as the executive assistant to the director of air warfare. Most recently, he commanded Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 2, the east coast MH-60S fleet replacement squadron.
 
Johnson’s personal decorations include: Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (individual action), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.