CAPT Darren G. McPherson
Commanding Officer |
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Captain Darren G. McPherson, a native of Katy, Texas, graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in History from the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned in May 1992. He holds a Master of Arts Degree in National Security Affairs from Naval Postgraduate School where he graduated with distinction in 1998, specializing in Chinese studies. He is a designated Joint Specialty Officer.
Sea tours include USS OLDENDORF (DD 972) and the staff of Commander, Mine Countermeasures Squadron One. A plankowner of USS ROOSEVELT (DDG 80), CAPT McPherson served as Weapons and Combat Systems Officer and completed ROOSEVELT’s maiden deployment in 2002. As Executive Officer on USS BUNKER HILL (CG 52), the ship completed a deployment to 5th and 7th Fleet Area of Operations, won three Battle Efficiency awards, and was awarded the Spokane Trophy in 2006 as the most proficient surface combatant in combat systems readiness and warfare operations in the Pacific Fleet.
CAPT McPherson commanded USS STERETT (DDG 104) from July 2009 through March 2011. During its maiden deployment to 5th and 7th Fleet, STERETT participated in a number of multi-national exercises and conducted humanitarian, escort, and counter-piracy operations culminating in the capture of 19 pirates off the coast of Somalia. While in command, STERETT earned all 15 Command Excellence awards for which it was eligible, two Battle Efficiency Awards, the Spokane Trophy for 2010, and three Golden Anchor Awards.
While ashore, CAPT McPherson served as the South Asia Country Director at United States Pacific Command during which he presided over a four-fold increase in U.S.-India military relations as well as managing Pacific Command’s military-military relationship with Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. CAPT McPherson served on the staff of Commander Naval Surface Forces as the Surface Warfare Enterprise Executive Assistant and was later the Branch Head for Commander and Lieutenant Commander Assignments at Navy Personnel Command (PERS-41). Most recently, CAPT McPherson served as the first-ever Operations & Training Officer at Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center where he led the Surface Community’s WTI, SWATT, and SWCTC efforts.
CAPT McPherson’s awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), and various other campaign medals and awards.