LCDR ERICK SAMAYOA
EXECUTIVE OFFICER, USS Gladiator (MCM 11)
09 December 2024
From Anaheim, California, Erick is a 2014 graduate of The Citadel, where he earned a degree in Physics and commissioned through the NROTC program.
His first sea tour was aboard USS ANZIO (CG 68), serving as the Strike Officer. During his tour, he deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR).
His second sea tour was aboard USS MOBILE BAY (CG53) as the Training Officer. During this tour, heparticipated in an around-the-world deployment withthe John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group and supported OIR.
Following his sea tours, he completed shore duty at the Naval Postgraduate School, earning a master’s degree in Applied Physics with a focus on Combat Systems- Weapons track. During this time, he also completed Joint Professional Military Education Phase I and was selected as a Meyer’s Scholar.
For his department head tour, Erick was dual-hatted as the Weapons and Combat Systems Officer aboard USS PRINCETON (CG 59). He deployed with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group, operating extensively in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. In 2022, he was selected as the Carrier Strike Group One (CSG-1) Junior Officer Tactician of the Year.
His awards include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2), and various unit awards.