Capt. Ratkus, a native of North Carolina, earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Hawaii Pacific University, a Master of Arts in Management from Webster University, a master’s-level military sciences certificate from the U. S. Army Command and General Staff College and a master’s-level technical certificate in computer science from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School.

Ratkus enlisted in the Navy in 1983 and served 14 years in the cryptologic technician (maintenance) rating, attaining the rank of chief petty officer. In 1997, he commissioned as a chief warrant officer, and in 2000, was selected for promotion to Lt. j.g. through the limited duty officer program. In 2002, he laterally transferred to the restricted line community as a cryptologic warfare officer.

His operational assignments include USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70); USS Virginia (CGN 38); USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71); USS Gettysburg (CG 64); Carrier Strike Group 8; and a deployment to Afghanistan.

His shore assignments include Naval Technical Training Center, Corry Station, Pensacola, Florida; Naval Security Group Det. Crane, Indiana; Naval Security Group Activity Kunia, Hawaii; Naval Security Group Activity Sugar Grove, West Virginia; U.S. Naval Forces Europe/U.S. 6th Fleet; U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet; Navy Personnel Command; Center for Information Warfare Training; and Tactical Training Group Atlantic.

Additionally, he commanded Navy Information Operations Command Colorado and served as the director of operations for the National Security Agency / Central Security Service Georgia.

Ratkus assumed command of the Center for Information Warfare Training, July 24, 2020.

Qualified as an information warfare and surface warfare officer, his personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (six awards), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (four awards), and various other unit and campaign awards.

Last Updated: 27 August 2020