Cmdr. Matthew Farrell is a native of San Diego, California.  He was commissioned in 2006 through Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida after earning his degree from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  He also holds a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College Advanced Strategist Program and a master’s degree in leadership, education, and development from the University of Maryland. 

Farrell’s sea tours include serving aboard USS Milius (DDG 69) as communications officer and training officer; USS Coronado (LCS 4) as combat systems officer and operations officer; Carrier Strike Group ELEVEN as Flag Secretary; USS Jackson (LCS 6) as executive officer; and USS Manchester (LCS 14) Gold Crew as commanding officer. 

Ashore, Farrell served as the 21st company officer at the U.S. Naval Academy, as executive officer at Afloat Training Group Pacific (ATGPAC) Northwest, and most recently as chief staff officer at ATGPAC.

Farrell reported as commanding officer, Surface Combat Systems Training Command LCS Training Facility Pacific in August 2025.

His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (seven awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards), and various unit and campaign awards.
 

Last Updated: 26 January 2026