Commander Eric Kellum Commanding Officer
CDR Eric Kellum was born and raised in Vidor, Texas. After enlisting in the 1991, he was accepted into the United States Naval Academy where graduated and received his commission in 1996.
His first tour of duty was aboard USS SHILOH (CG-67), where he served as the Missiles/Gunnery Officer. SHILOH deployed to the North Arabian Gulf as the Air Defense Commander for the ABRAHAM LINCOLN Battle Group.
In August 1998, CDR Kellum reported to the Naval Nuclear Power School in Charleston, SC. He completed the Navy's Nuclear power training pipeline in October 1999
In November 1999, CDR Kellum reported to USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70) and served a twenty-four month tour as both the Reactor Mechanical and Reactor Propulsion Division Officers. During his tour, he completed two Western Pacific deployments one with USS CARL VINSON and one while cross-decked to USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN-74) both in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
In November 2001, CDR Kellum was assigned as the Officer in Charge of Texas A & M NROTC unit in Galveston, Texas. While assigned to Texas A & M, he obtained a Master's Degree in Environmental Management from the University fo Houston, Clear Lake.
CDR Kellum reported as the Operations Officer onboard USS OAK HILL (LSD-51) in April 2004. During his tour, OAK HILL completed one surge deployment to SOUTHCOM AOR and one 5th Fleet deployment in support of counter-piracy operations in the Horn of Africa region.
In April 2006, CDR Kellum reported to USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) as the Reactor Mechanical Assistant. During his twenty-four month tour, USS ENTERPRISE completed two oversea deployments, two availabilities and an INSURV. During his tour, he completed his Joint Professional Military Education (JPME I) via the Air Force distance learning course.
In April 2008, he reported to Fleet Forces Command to serve as a member of the Nuclear Proplsion Examining Board. During his tour, he inspected over 40 nuclear powered submarines and every nuclear powered aircraft carrier in the fleet.
In April 2011 he assumed duties as Executive Officer onboard USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) and Commanding Officer in November 2012. CDR Kellum's awards include the Meritorius Service Medal; Navy Commendation Medal; Navy Achievement Medal and various unit and service awards.