Capt. Neil Colston, a native of Spring Branch, Texas, graduated from Southwest Texas State University in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. He holds a Master of Science in International Studies from the Naval War College, and a Master of Science in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University.
 
At sea, he served as the main propulsion assistant and damage control assistant aboard USS Philadelphia (SSN 690) deploying twice and earning two “Battle E” awards; engineer officer aboard USS Kentucky (SSBN 737) (BLUE) conducting five strategic deterrence patrols; executive officer aboard USS Helena (SSN 725) deploying to the U.S. Southern Command area of operations; and commanding officer aboard USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720)  deploying to the U.S. European Command area of operations and earning the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
 
Ashore, he served as an instructor for Trident Training Facility, Bangor; engineer for Commander, Submarine Squadron 2; student at the Naval War College; Submarine staff at Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet; the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment in support of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Matters; executive assistant to the Chief of Naval Research; and assistant chief of naval research.
 
Colston reported to Trident Training Facility, Bangor, in March 2023 as commanding officer.
 
His personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (seven awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various campaign and unit citations.
 

Last Updated: 16 October 2023