Vice Adm. Doug “V8” Verissimo, is a native of Falmouth, Massachusetts. He is a 1987 graduate of Cape Cod Community College with an Associates in Arts and Science. Immediately following graduation, he enlisted with the Naval Aviation Cadet (NAVCAD) Program. Upon completion of flight training, he earned both his commission and designation as a naval aviator in July 1989. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from California State University, Fresno, California and a Master of Science in Campaign Planning and Strategy from the Joint Forces Staff College. He is also a graduate of the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program..

His operational assignments include Fighter Attack Squadron (VFA) 25, catapult and arresting gear officer aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74); department head for VFA-34, command of VFA-105; executive officer aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), and commanding officer of USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).

Verissimo’s shore duty assignments include instructor duty at VFA-125, a demonstration pilot for U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, Blue Angels; executive assistant to Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic and Joint Staff J3, where he served as joint force coordination/strategic plans division chief.

Verissimo’s flag tours include deputy director for operations, Operations Team 2 (J3), Commander Carrier Strike Group 9, Director Assessment Division (N81), Director, Maritime Operations, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic.

He assumed his duties as Commander, Naval Air Forces and Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet in February 2026.

His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and various other personal, unit and service awards.

Last Updated: 3 February 2026