Executive Officer
Cmdr. Michael Eckert

A native of Mount Airy, Maryland, Cmdr. Michael Eckert graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2006 and later earned his Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering/Engineering Science from the United States Naval Postgraduate School in 2015.

Eckert was designated a Naval Aviator in March 2008 and was assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Eight (HSC-28) in Norfolk, VA. He flew the MH-60S and deployed onboard the USS Nassau (LHA 4), USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2), and USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) in support of US 5th and 6th Fleet operations.

Following a six-month period in 2012 serving as an instructor pilot at Helicopter Training Squadron Eight (HT-8) in Milton, FL, he was selected to United States Naval Test Pilot School Class 143 in Patuxent River, Maryland. Upon graduation, he served as the weapons and mine countermeasures project officer at Helicopter Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ONE (HX-21) from 2013 to 2016.

Eckert completed his Department Head tour at Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Nine (HSC-9) in Norfolk, VA from 2016 to 2019. He deployed with Carrier Strike Group Two (CSG-2) and Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) onboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), as well as Officer in Charge onboard USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Following his Department Head tour, he served as a Joint Staff Officer in the Theatre Maritime Operations Center and as Military Assistant to Commander, Submarines NATO while attached to NATO Allied Maritime Command in Northwood, United Kingdom.

Eckert has flown over 2,700 hours in 25 different aircraft. His military awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit, campaign, and service awards.