Rear Adm. Sean R. Bailey is a native of Lansing, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Political Science. He commissioned through the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1991. He completed Naval Flight Officer training in Pensacola, Florida, earning his wings in 1992. He holds a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College and completed the Navy Nuclear Power Training Program.

Bailey’s operational tours include Fighter Squadron (VF) 103, VF-14 and VF-213 in the F-14 Tomcat, and Strike Fighter Squadron 2 (VFA 2), in the F/A-18F where he assumed command of the “Bounty Hunters” in 2009. He has deployed aboard USS Saratoga (CV 60), USS Enterprise (CVN 65), USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). He flew combat missions on the opening nights of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Ashore, Bailey served as an instructor at the F-14 Fleet Replacement Squadron (VF-101) on the NATO staff of Allied Joint Command Lisbon, in Oeiras, Portugal; and as the Chief of Staff for Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic.

In addition to VFA-2, Bailey commanded USS Arlington (LPD 24) on her maiden deployment, and USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77). He was the first executive officer of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78).

He has flown over 3,700 hours in F-14 and F/A-18, and has logged over 900 arrested carrier landings.

Rear Adm. Bailey's personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Air Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device.

Last Updated: 24 August 2021