Lt. Cmdr. Gary Simpson, a native of Littleton, Colo. enlisted in the Navy in September of 1997 as a Seaman Apprenticeship and later earned a commission through the Limited Duty Officer Program.  He graduated from the University of Maryland in 2021 with A Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

His first tour as an enlisted sailor was aboard USS Oakhill (LSD-51). Selected as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) candidate, he attended training at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in July of 2001 and completed follow-on training at the Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal, graduating in October of 2002.  He was then assigned to EOD Mobile Unit (EODMU) 8, Sicily; EOD Technology Division (EODTECHDIV) Indian Head, Md.; and EODMU 3, San Diego, Calif. 

 At sea as a commissioned officer, he served as officer in charge of an EOD platoon, EODMU 5, Guam, deploying to Okinawa, Japan, in support of 1-1 Special Forces Group (Airborne); readiness and training officer (RTO), EODMU 11, Imperial Beach, Calif.; and as RTO at EODMU 5, Guam.
 

In August, 2022, he reported to Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, Panama City, Fla., as executive officer.

Lt. Cmdr. Simpson is a qualified Master EOD Technician, EOD Warfare Officer and Naval Parachutist. His decorations include the Bronze Star with “V” (Valor), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy Achievement Medal (three awards), Army Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon (two awards), Good Conduct Medal with 3 Stars, Navy Expert Rifle Medal, Navy Expert Pistol Medal and various campaign and unit awards.

 

Last Updated: 25 January 2023