Rear Admiral Michael J. Connor became the 41st commander, Submarine Group 7, Yokosuka, Japan, on June 20, 2008. He is responsible for coordinating and controlling submarine activities in the 7th and 5th Fleet areas of responsibility. A native of Weymouth, Mass., Connor graduated from Bowdoin College in 1980 with a Bachelor of Arts in Physics.

Following commissioning and nuclear power training, he served aboard USS Ulysses S. Grant (SSBN 631) as communicator, main propulsion assistant and damage control assistant. He then served aboard USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720) as damage control assistant.

After completing the Submarine Officer Advanced Course, he was assigned as navigator and operations officer aboard USS Providence (SSN 719). Transferring ashore, he directed the Submarine Tactics Branch at the Navy Operational Intelligence Center. 

Connor’s next assignment was as executive officer of USS Augusta (SSN 710). He then served as flag secretary on the staff of Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. 

Connor commanded USS Seawolf (SSN 21) from 1997 to 2000 where he led the first ship of the class through the rigorous system certification, shakedown and Post Shakedown Availability periods.

Following command, he was designated a Mahan Scholar and assigned to the Naval War College in Newport, R.I. He graduated with distinction, earning a Master of Arts in National Security Affairs and Strategic Studies. He then served on the staff of Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet as the director of the Prospective Commanding Officer School. 

Connor commanded Submarine Squadron 8 from March of 2003 through July 2004. During this period, the ships of Squadron 8 participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom and a number of other operations in support of the global war on terrorism. 

Connor served as assistant deputy director for Regional Operations on the Joint Staff from August 2004 to August 2006. He then served as director, Operations Division on the staff of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller from September 2006 until June 2008.

His personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (three awards), Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal (three awards), and Navy Achievement Medal.