Capt. Aaron Shoemaker is a native of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He has also earned master’s degrees in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas in 2005 and National Security Strategy from the National War College in 2014.
Following completion of flight school, Shoemaker was designated a Naval Aviator and has served in operational tours worldwide. His sea tours include Patrol Squadron 26 (VP-26) as instructor pilot and mission commander, USS George Washington (CVN 73) as the Operations Administration Officer and Officer-of-the-Deck (Underway), Patrol Squadron 16 (VP-16) as department head, and Patrol Squadron 40 (VP-40) as Executive Officer and Commanding Officer.
Ashore, Shoemaker served as Flag Aide to Commander, Navy Recruiting Command; instructor pilot in Patrol Squadron 30 (VP-30); Deputy Executive Assistant to Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Integration of Capabilities and Resources (N8); Presidential Strike Advisor and Assistant Deputy Director for Operations, National Military Command Center, Joint Staff; and as the OPNAV N34 Division Chief, overseeing the Navy’s Antiterrorism, Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems, High Value Unit Escort, Personnel Recovery, and Pandemic and Infectious Disease policies.
On April 29, 2022, Shoemaker assumed command of Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy.
His awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Air Medal (Strike/Flight Award), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (three awards), and numerous unit and campaign awards.
Last Updated: 5 January 2024