COMMANDING OFFICER
HELSEACOMBATRON FOUR
Tamara Graham
Commander,United States Navy
CDR Graham is a native of Rome, New York and a graduate from the University of Virginia where she received her commission through the NROTC program. She was designated a naval aviator in 1996.
CDR Graham’s sea tours include a division officer tour with the Indians of HS-6 deploying aboard both the USS KITTY HAWK (CV-63) and the USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70) and a department head tour with the Eightballers of HS-8 deploying onboard the USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). She forward deployed with the Eightballers to conduct overland combat operations in support of Multi-National Division-SE and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. CDR Graham served as Executive Officer of the Black Knights of HSC-4 deploying onboard the USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN-76) and took command of the squadron in October 2011.
Ashore, CDR Graham served as an instructor pilot with the War Hawks of HS-10, Assistant Air Operations Officer for the staff of COMCARGRU (CCG-1), and conducted Theater Security Cooperation planning and engagement in South and Southeast Asia on a joint duty assignment at Special Operations Command, Pacific (SOCPAC). She holds a Master’s degree in National Security Studies from the Naval War College.
With over 2900 flight hours, CDR Graham awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (Strike&Flight), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various unit and campaign decorations.