Rear Adm. John A. Schommer is a native of Dayton, Ohio. He is a 1988 graduate of Arizona State University with a degree in political science. In 2000 he earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. He was commissioned in November 1988 through Officer Candidate School.

Upon completion of Surface Warfare Officer School in April 1989, he reported for duty aboard USS Tarawa (LHA 1), where he served as the electrical division officer, gunnery officer and fire control officer and qualified as a surface warfare officer. He reported to Navy and Marine Corps Reserve Readiness Center Phoenix in April 1992 and served as the manpower and training officer. He was the main propulsion assistant on USS Merrill (DD 976) from May 1994 until September 1995 when he was released from active duty and transitioned to the Navy Reserve.

Schommer has commanded six reserve units, including Naval Forces Europe/Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Det. 802; Military Sealift Command Expeditionary Port Unit Det. 116; U.S. 3rd Fleet Joint Force Maritime Component Commander Det. Phoenix; Naval Beach Group 1 Det. 119; Naval Surface Forces Pacific Det. B; Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 Det. 219.

Additional reserve tours include deputy commander, Navy Region Northwest Reserve Component Command; executive officer, Naval Sea Systems Command Det. 118; executive officer, Amphibious Construction Battalion 1 Det. 219; training/administrative officer, Military Sealift Command Western Pacific Det. 119.

Schommer served on active duty as chief of staff, Joint Task Force - Guantanamo from December 2012 to August 2013.

His previous flag assignments include deputy commander, U.S. Fourth Fleet; deputy commander, Military Sealift Command; and deputy director of operations, U.S. Transportation Command.

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

Last Updated: 8 March 2024