Cmdr. Jeffrey R. Portell, a native of Waterloo, Illinois, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2004, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography. He subsequently became a meteorology and oceanography (METOC) officer. He is a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School where he earned a Master of Science in Meteorology and Oceanography and completed Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I. He is also a graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College’s Joint and Combined Warfighting School where he completed JPME Phase II.

Operationally and afloat, he deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with Naval Special Warfare Support Activity 1 as METOC officer and technical special reconnaissance officer in charge. He also served aboard USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) in the western Pacific as Expeditionary Strike Group 7's staff METOC officer, strike group tactical action officer, and battle watch captain.

Ashore, he served as assistant operations officer and plankowner, Naval Oceanography Anti-Submarine Warfare Center, Stennis Space Center; operations and training officer, Naval Oceanography Special Warfare Center; officer in charge, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Professional Development Detachment Pacific; and requirements officer for the Oceanographer of the Navy, Chief of Naval Operations Staff.

His most recent assignment was to U.S. Africa Command as the senior METOC officer. Upon completion of this tour, he received designation as a joint qualified officer.

He currently serves as commanding officer, Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.

His personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five awards), and various unit and personal awards.
 

Last Updated: 18 November 2022