Capt. Jonathan Schermerhorn, a native of Columbia Falls, Montana, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1999 and served aboard submarines. He graduated from Montana State University with a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science and earned his commission through Officer Candidate School in 2004. He graduated from the U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College with a master’s degree in Military Studies. 
 
At sea, he deployed with Minehunter Crew Valor and served as combat information center officer and supply officer aboard USS Osprey (MHC 51), USS Cardinal (MHC 60), USS Shrike (MHC 62), and USS Robin (MHC 54); training officer aboard USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53); weapons officer and combat systems officer aboard USS Chung Hoon (DDG 93); and executive officer aboard USS Omaha (LCS 12).  He deployed twice to U.S. 5th Fleet in support of mine hunting and mine clearance operations during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and deployed four times to U.S. 7th Fleet in support of USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Strike Group (CSG), USS George Washington (CVN 73) CSG, and ballistic missile defense missions.
 
His shore tours include force protection officer for Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central; anti-submarine warfare tactics officer for Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center’s Sea Combat division; and commanding officer of U.S. Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System Romania.
 
He reported to Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCTSC) AEGIS Training and Readiness Center (ATRC) as commanding officer in November 2023.   
 
Schermerhorn’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (six awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards), and various unit, campaign and service awards.
 

Last Updated: 28 August 2025