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Naval Air Station Lemoore says so long to Capt. Peterson and welcomes new base commander
During Capt. During Peterson’s time in command, he navigated NAS Lemoore through the tumultuous waters of Covid, saw the completion of many important base projects, and hosted a menagerie of distinguished guests – from Vice President Mike Pence to the Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Mike Gilday.
Capt. Peterson’s strong leadership and unceasing drive to elevate and enrich the lives of those he led resulted in him becoming one of the most well-respected and admired commanding officers in the history of NAS Lemoore. His transparency with the community - on and off base - strengthened civic relationships, forged new ties, and molded NAS Lemoore into a better place.
Capt. Peterson began his Naval career by being commissioned at Officer Candidate School in March 1997. He earned his Wings of Gold in September 1999 and reported to VFA-125 “Rough Raiders” at NAS Lemoore, Calif., where he was trained to fly the F/A-18 A-D Hornet aircraft. Throughout his 25 years in the U.S. Navy, Capt. Peterson has deployed countless times and participated in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
He has lived in three countries and has visited countless others while deployed. He also has accumulated more than 3,000 flight hours and more than 750 carrier landings. Capt. Peterson’s next assignment will be serving as the Naval Attaché to Germany.
“As I bid farewell to the remarkable team at NAS Lemoore, I am filled with immense gratitude for the privilege of being a part of this exceptional team of Sailors and civilians. Throughout the past 3.5 years, I have grown to love the community and its unwavering spirit of patriotism and sacrifice. Together, we’ve weathered the hardships of Covid, scorching hot summers, and flooding, and our Navy family here has shown resilience, dedication, and the utmost professionalism. It has been an honor to have served with these Sailors, and I have no doubt that they will continue to make this base and our country proud under the leadership of Capt. O’Connor,” said Capt. Peterson.
Capt. Shawn P. O’Connor, who began his Naval career in December 2000, will be the 27th commanding officer to lead NAS Lemoore. He has an arsenal of experience to catapult Naval Air Station Lemoore into the next era of combat readiness.
“As I assume command of this outstanding team at NAS Lemoore, I am imbued with a deep sense of responsibility. I am humbled to be joining such a talented and dedicated group of sailors and civilians who have achieved so much and continue to showcase their unsurpassed skills every day. I am committed to continuing the legacy of excellence that Capt. Peterson has established during his tenure here, and I am eager to embark on this journey and see what we here at NAS Lemoore can accomplish together,” said Capt. O’Connor.
