DCAG
Capt. Mitchell S. McCallister

Capt. Mitchell McCallister, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, is a 1998 graduate of the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor’s Degree in Systems Engineering. In 2000, he was designated a naval aviator and reported to the Grim Reapers of VF-101 for initial training in the F-14 Tomcat.

In September 2001, he was assigned to the Fighting Checkmates of VF-211, flying the F-14A. Assigned to VF-211, he completed combat deployments while embarked aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) and USS Enterprise (CVN-65)) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Subsequently, he reported to VFA-122, transitioning to the FA-18E/F Super Hornet and remained for assignment as an instructor pilot. In 2007, he reported to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 as Staff Landing Signal Officer (LSO), completing a deployment aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). During his CAG Paddles tour, he was the recipient of the 2008 CDR John “Bug” Roach LSO of the Year Award.

In 2009, he reported to the Fighting Blacklions of VFA-213 as a department head, participating in themaiden deployment of the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77).

In 2012, he received orders to the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, earning a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies, graduating with highest distinction. Upon graduation, he reported to the Joint Force Coordinator Division, Regional Operations and Force Management Directorate (J35), the Joint Staff. While assigned to the J35, he served as a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Orders Writer and Joint Working Group Lead.

In July 2015, Captain McCallister reported to VFA-105 as the executive officer. He completed a combat deployment aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and assumed command of the Gunslingers in December 2016.

 In May 2018, he reported to Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic where he served as the Director of Air Wing Training and Readiness (N40), and as executive assistant to the Commander.

McCallister has accumulated over 3,300 flight hours and 800 arrested landings. His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious ServiceMedal, Strike/Flight Air Medal (five awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards).