Executive Officer
Commander Mark J. Van Orden
Commander Mark “BOOM BOOM” Van Orden Jr., a native of New Jersey, graduated with distinction from the United States Naval Academy in 2010, earning a Bachelor of Science in English and recognition as an Academic All-American. Following commissioning, he reported for initial flight training in Pensacola, Florida, and then Kingsville, Texas, flying the T-34C Turbo Mentor and T-45C Goshawk. He earned his "Wings of Gold" and was designated a Naval Aviator in October 2012 before reporting to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106) for fleet replacement training in the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
In November 2013, he joined the World Famous Fighting BLACKLIONS of VFA-213, completing a combat deployment to Fifth Fleet aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Inherent Resolve.
In 2017, CDR Van Orden was selected to attend the Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN), graduating as a Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor (SFTI). He subsequently reported to Strike Fighter Weapons School Atlantic (SFWSL), serving as the Direct Attack Weapons Subject Matter Expert. He was named the 2019 Strike Fighter Weapons School Instructor of the Year.
In November 2019, he reported to the BLACK KNIGHTS of VFA-154 as Training Officer and deployed to Seventh Fleet aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) in support of maritime security operations.
He later joined the JOLLY ROGERS of VFA-103 for his Department Head tour, culminating as the squadron’s Maintenance Officer. He completed a 6th Fleet deployment aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and was awarded the 2022 Michael Longardt Leadership Award by Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic.
Following his Department Head tour, CDR Van Orden returned to the GLADIATORS of VFA-106 in May 2023 as FRS Training Officer, overseeing the training of more than 250 Replacement Aircrew.
In May 2025, he reported to the FIGHTING CHECKMATES of VFA-211 as Executive Officer. NIKEL UP!
CDR Van Orden has logged over 2,600 flight hours and 500 carrier-arrested landings. He holds various qualifications, including SFTI and Air Wing Strike Lead. His personal awards include the Strike/Flight Air Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals, and the Navy Achievement Medal.