Cmdr. Richard F. Baier, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1996. He graduated Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Technical Management and Strayer University in 2015 with a Master of Business Administration in Acquisitions. He earned his commission through the Limited Duty Officer Program in 2007.

His enlisted assignments include Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 124, deploying aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) in support of Operations Allied Force and Southern Watch; VAW-112, deploying aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and Global War on Terrorism; and Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) Norfolk. 
 
His officer assignments include Officer Training Command; VAW-117, deploying aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Global War on Terrorism; Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic; Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, deploying aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Inherent Resolve; VFA-122; Carrier Air Wing (CVW 5), deploying aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in support of regional strategic operations and Operation Final Countdown; and VFA-122. 

Baier reported to CNATTU Whidbey Island as executive officer in December 2023 and commanding officer in January 2025.

His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (six awards), and various individual, unit and campaign awards. 
 

Last Updated: 30 January 2025