COMMODORE
Captain Rick J. Stoner
COMMANDER, SUBMARINE SQUADRON SEVEN
Captain Rick J. Stoner was born and raised near
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He graduated with honors from
the United States Naval Academy in 1989 and earned a
Master of Science degree from Johns Hopkins University in
1989.
Following graduation, CAPT Stoner pursued the
standard nuclear power training pipeline via the S5W
prototype in Charleston, South Carolina. In 1991 he
reported to USS NEVADA (SSBN 733) (BLUE) where
he made six patrols and served as Communications Officer,
Main Propulsion Assistant, and Weapons Officer. In 1993
CAPT Stoner was selected as the Northwest Region Junior
Officer of the Year. From 1994 to 1996 he served as the
Submarine Scheduling and Operations Officer for
Commander, Submarine Group 8 in Naples, Italy.
In 1997 CAPT Stoner reported to USS HAWKBILL (SSN 666) in Hawaii where he served the Navigator and Operations Officer during two Submarine Science Ice Expeditions (SCICEX '98 and '99) which included over 20 surfacings through the Arctic ice, two visits to the North Pole, and circumnavigating the North American continent. After decommissioning USS HAWKBILL in 1999, CAPT Stoner served on the Tactical Readiness Evaluation Team for Commander, Submarine Forces Pacific in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. From 2002 to 2003 he served as Executive Officer on USS PORTSMOUTH (SSN 707) completing a highly successful Western Pacific deployment. CAPT Stoner then served as a Naval Liaison Officer on the Secretary of Defense's staff at the Pentagon from 2004 to 2006.
CAPT Stoner served as Commanding Officer of USS CHICAGO (SSN 721) in Hawaii from October 2006 to August 2009. During his tour, CHICAGO completed two six-month Western Pacific deployments and was awarded the COMSUBRON THREE Battle Efficiency "E" in 2006 and 2008. Following command he served as the Nuclear Weapons Policy Branch Head (N51) on the OPNAV staff. Captain Stoner's current assignment is as Military Assistant to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation, on the Secretary of Defense's staff.
Captain Stoner is authorized to wear the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), the Navy Commendation Medal (six awards), the Navy Achievement Medal, in addition to other unit and service awards.
