Cmdr. Dave P. Nicolas
EXECUTIVE OFFICER, USS OSCAR AUSTIN (DDG 79)
08 March 2024
Commander Dave Nicolas is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio and a 2008 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in History. Additionally, he earned a Master's degree in National Security Studies with a focus on South Asia from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2015.
His operational assignments include tours as the Gunnery Officer on USS FORD (FFG-54), Navigator on USS MOMSEN (DDG-92), and Operations Officer and Combat Systems Officer on USS WINSTON S. CHURCHILL (DDG-81). His shore assignments include a tour at Commander, Navy Region Northwest, first as a Regional Operation Center Watch Commander, followed by duties as Flag Aide to Commander, Navy Region Northwest. Prior to reporting to USS OSCAR AUSTIN, he was assigned to the Surface Warfare Directorate (N96) of the OPNAV Staff as the Resource Officer for guns, ammunition, counter-unmanned aerial systems, directed energy systems, and terminal defense development.
Commander Nicolas assumed his duties as Executive Officer of USS OSCAR AUSTIN in August 2023.
His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, as well as various unit and expeditionary awards.