Cmdr. Rich Eytel

Cmdr. Rich Eytel is a New Jersey native. He attended the Virginia Military Institute, graduating in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in business and economics, and was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. He earned a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Navy War College.

He served his division officer tours as a damage control assistant aboard USS Nicholas (FFG 47) and as a navigator aboard USS Monterey (CG 61). 

His first shore duty assignment was as a seamanship and navigation instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy.

Following shore duty, Cmdr. Eytel served as an operations officer aboard USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) and then for Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22.
 
He then served as an action officer on the OPNAV N3N5 staff, followed by a tour as the deputy fleet scheduler at U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Cmdr. Eytel’s last assignment was as the executive officer of USS Vella Gulf (CG 72). 

He assumed command of USS Stout (DDG 55) in February 2020. 

His awards include the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit and campaign awards.