Cmdr. James J. Irrgang
Commanding Officer, USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44)
14 November 2024
Commander James J. Irrgang, a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, received his commission in May 2004 through Carnegie Mellon Naval ROTC. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Pittsburgh. In 2011 he received his Masters of the Arts degree in National Security Studies (along with JPME Phase I), from the U.S. Naval War College.
His initial assignment was as Electronic Warfare Officer and OI-Division Officer in the Dock Landing Ship USS ASHLAND (LSD 48). Subsequently he served as Main Propulsion Assistant in the Cruiser USS LEYTE GULF (CG 55). Following Department Head School, he served as Chief Engineer in the Destroyer USS GONZALEZ (DDG 66) and as Staff Material and Logistics Officer (N4) for AMPHIBIOUS SQUADRON FOUR (CPR 4) and KEARSARGE Amphibious Readiness Group. He has completed two tours as Executive Officer in the Dock Landing Platform USS MESA VERDE (LPD 19) and USS SAN ANTONIO (LPD 17).
His shore duty assignments have been at the United States Naval Academy as a Seamanship and Navigation Instructor, Navy Liaison to the Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies and Operations, Headquarters Marine Corps, and is currently assigned to Deputy Undersecretary of the Navy, International Affairs branch.
His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy Achievement Medal, various unit, and service awards.