Cmdr. William “Chris” Hinson, a native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and received his commission through the Naval ROTC scholarship in May 2006.  He was designed a naval aviator in February 2008 and later earned a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.

Hinson’s operational assignments include Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 where he deployed with USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and USS Nitze (DDG 94) in support of multiple multinational exercises and counterpiracy operations.  His next assignment was aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), where he served as the assistant air operations officer and officer of the deck throughout their 2016 deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.  His last operational tour was with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 as the Detachment 4 officer in charge aboard USS Shoup (DDG 86) in support of United Nations Security Council sanctions enforcement and Oceania Maritime Security Initiative, completing his tour as the squadron maintenance officer. 
 
Shore assignments include the chief of naval operations staff, Air Warfare Directorate (N98), where he served as the naval aviation technical training requirements officer; flag aide to the director, Air Warfare; and Navy defense fellow, assigned to the staff of Congressman Bradley Byrne (AL-01), where he was responsible for the congressman’s military and foreign relations portfolios.  His most recent shore assignment was with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency as the deputy director of legislative affairs.
 
He reported as commanding officer, Navy Service Support Advanced Training Command in November 2021. 
 
His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various other personal, unit, service and campaign awards.

Last Updated: 3 November 2021