Rear Adm. Patrick McGrath assumed command of Naval Air Force Reserve in August, 2007. He is a 1979 graduate of the U. S. Naval Academy and a native of New York City.

McGrath was designated as a Naval Aviator in 1981, reporting to the Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (Light) (HSL) 35. While at HSL-35, he deployed to the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific aboard USS Fanning (FF 1076), USS Reasoner (FF 1063), and USS Harry W. Hill (DD 986).

McGrath completed tours as a flight instructor in HSL-41, and then an officer-in-charge in HSL-45, completing a deployment to the Persian Gulf aboard USS Kinkaid (DD-965). During this tour, McGrath pursued his studies at the University of San Diego School of Law and completed his Juris Doctorate in Law in 1991. He left active duty in August 1990 and was commissioned in the Navy Reserve.

McGrath held numerous billets at HSL-84 before assuming command. He subsequently commanded the reserve units for Carrier Southwest, Carrier Group 1, and Commander Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet. He then served on the staff of Commander, 3rd Fleet, before assuming duties as deputy commander, Readiness Command Southwest and deputy commander, Navy Region Southwest. He is currently assigned as commander, Naval Air Forces Reserve and vice commander, Naval Air Forces.

In his civilian career, McGrath serves his community as a deputy district attorney in the San Diego District Attorney’s Office.