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Rear Adm. Kovacich was raised in an Air Force family and calls Spokane, Wash., home. He is a 1980 graduate of California State Polytechnic University at Pomona, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. He worked as a certified public accountant prior to joining the Navy through the Aviation Officer Candidate program in 1983. Earning his wings and designation as a naval flight officer in June 1984, and upon completion of initial A-6 training with the Golden Intruders of Attack Squadron (VA) 128, he reported to the Eagles of VA-115, forward deployed in USS Midway (CV 41) in Atsugi, Japan.
His subsequent flying tours include the Golden Intruders of VA-128 as an instructor; strike operations officer for Commander, Carrier Group One; department head for BlackLions of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213; executive officer of the Flying Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122; commanding officer of the VF-211 Checkmates, and commander, Carrier Air Wing Eight.
Staff tours include: Air Force Command and Staff College in Montgomery, Ala., where he earned a Master of Political Science degree from Auburn University; Armed Forces Inaugural Committee; Joint Staff Operations directorate, Counter Narcotics Division; executive assistant to director, Assessment Division, deputy chief of Naval Operations for Requirements; faculty member of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces; deputy director of Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Alignment Branch; deputy director of Current Operations (J3), United States Joint Forces, Baghdad, Iraq, and Director Joint Integration and Capabilities Division, OPNAV staff.
He has accumulated over 4,000 flight hours and 800 arrested landings. Awards include the James Bond Stockdale Leadership Award, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and various campaign and service awards.
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