">CDR Schmidt was born and raised in Homerville, Ohio.  He was appointed to the United States Naval Academy where he graduated and received his commission in 1992.

 

    Following initial nuclear propulsion and surface warfare training, his first tour of duty was aboard USS MISSISSIPPI (CGN 40), where he served as Reactor Laboratories Division Officer, Chemistry/Radiological Controls Assistant, M-1 Division Officer, and later Assistant Chief Engineer and Decommissioning Coordinator.

 

     In September 2000, CDR Schmidt reported to USS RUSSELL (DDG 59) and served an eighteen month tour as the Operations Officer.  In April 2002, CDR Schmidt reported to PCU RONALD REAGAN (CVN 76) as Reactor Electrical Assistant and completed a two year tour which including initial testing, sea trials, delivery, and shakedown.  While assigned to RONALD REAGAN he completed his Joint Professional Military Education (JPME I) through the Air Command and Staff College Distance Learning course.

 

    CDR Schmidt’s  tours ashore include Navigation Instructor and Sail Training Officer at the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit, Pennsylvania State University; Executive Officer, Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit, Ballston Spa, New York; and Staff Officer, J7 (Training and Exercise) at Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, the Netherlands.  While assigned to NROTC Penn State he completed a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

 

    In November 2005, CDR Schmidt reported to USS ROOSEVELT (DDG 80) as the Executive Officer.  USS ROOSEVELT surged to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Gulf in support of the GWOT and later deployed as the flagship for Standing NATO Maritime Group Two in the Mediterranean.

  

            CDR Schmidt’s awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal; Navy Commendation Medal; Navy Achievement Medal; and various unit and service awards.