Cmdr. RICH MEHLMANN
EXECUTIVE OFFICER, TACTICAL AIR CONTROL SQUADRON 22
23 September 2024
Commander Rich “Mush” Mehlmann, is a native of Bristol, RI and a 2008 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Economics. In September of 2010, he received his Naval Aviation designation in Pensacola, FL.
In 2010, Commander Mehlmann reported to the “Fleet Angels” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO (HSC-2) in Norfolk, VA to complete Fleet Replacement Squadron training flying the MH-60S. His first operational assignment was with the “Dragonwhales” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO EIGHT (HSC-28), located in Norfolk, VA, where he deployed on the USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) and USNS Robert E Peary (T-AKE-5) in the FIFTH FLEET AOR and the “Ghostriders” of DET ONE in the SIXTH FLEET AOR. He completed subsequent tours with the “Fleet Angels” as an MH-60S Instructor Pilot, and the “Sea Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO TWO (HSC-22) for his aviation department head tour in Norfolk, VA. While attached to HSC-22 he qualified as an air vehicle operator and unmanned aircraft commander for the MQ-8B/C and deployed to FOURTH FLEET AOR as OIC of DET SEVEN on the USS Detroit (LCS 7) with a composite manned and unmanned detachment. He served as the Safety Officer and Operations Officer.
Additionally, he was assigned to the USS Wasp (LHD 1) as the Assistant Air Officer in Norfolk, VA and Sasebo, Japan conducting HADR/DSCA in the Caribbean following hurricanes Irma and Maria and three FDNF patrols in the SEVENTH FLEET AOR including the first operational deployment of the F-35B. Most recently, he reported from the Joint Staff Strategy, Plans, and Policy Directorate (J5). He served as the political military planner for Central Asia and the Executive Assistant to the Joint Staff J-5 Deputy Director for Politico Military Affairs (Middle East, Africa).
In August of 2024, CDR Mehlmann joined the Skylords of TACRON 22 as the Executive Officer.
His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (4 awards), and various unit, campaign, and service awards.