CDR Robert "Fitz" Gentry is a native of Williamsburg, VA. He received his commision and Bachelor of Science Degree in History from the United States Naval Academy in 1994. Following flight training, he was designated a Naval Flight Officer at NAS Pensacola in June 1996.
After completing EA-6B fleet replacement training at NAS Whidbey Island with VAQ-129, he reported to the Yellow Jackets of VAQ-138. While assigned to VAQ-138, he completed two WESTPAC deployments aboard USS NIMITZ (CVN 68) and USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 64) in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. Between these two deployments, CDR Gentry and VAQ-138 were forward deployed to Aviano Air Base, Italy, flying combat sorties in support of Operation ALLIED FORCE.
In November 2000, CDR Gentry reported to the Grim Reapers of VF-101 for fleet replacement training in the F-14A/B. Following completion of the FRS, he was assigned to the Pukin' Dogs of VF-143, where he served as Quality Assurance Officer and assistant Operations Officer deploying aboard USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67) in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM and aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. In 2003 he received the 2003 William P. Laurence and the 2004 Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic Junior Officer Leadership Awards.
In January 2005, CDR Gentry reported to the Tomcatters of VF-31. Serving as the Administrative and Operations Officer, he deployed aboard the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71), flying combat mission in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. On October 4th, 2006, CDR Gentry and pilot Chris Richard flew the final U.S. Navy F-14D Tomcat from NAS Oceana to Republic Airport, Farmingdale, New York.
In November 2006, CDR Gentry reported to the Naval Personnel Command as the Strike Fighter Placement Officer. In November 2008, CDR Gentry reported to the Australian Command and Staff College in Canberra, Australia graduating with a graduate diploma in Defense Studies.
CDR Gentry has accumulated over 3,300 hours and 900 carrier-arrested landings. His military awards include the Strike/Flight Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal and numerous unit, campaign and service awards.