CDR Devine Ryan Johnson, USN

Commander Johnson is a native of South Carolina and commissioned in 2003 via the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC). He is a graduate of Norfolk State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Technology. He also holds a Master’s degree in Information Technology Management from the Naval Postgraduate School.

Afloat, his division officer tours were as Second Division Officer in USS ASHLAND (LSD 48) and Damage Control Assistant in USS NITZE (DDG 94), completing deployments with KEARSARGE and BATAAN Expeditionary Strike Groups in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. As a department head Commander Johnson twice served as Chief Engineer; first in USS LABOON (DDG 58), followed by USS VELLA GULF (CG 72), deploying on both ships to the Sixth Fleet AOR for ballistic missile defense operations in support of Operation ATLANTIC SENTRY and Operation SHARP SENTRY.

Ashore, Commander Johnson served as the Ship Self Defense System and Navigation Branch Head on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations, Surface Warfare Division, and most recently as a Political/Military planner on the Joint Staff/J5 Strategy, Plans, and Policy Directorate.

He reported as Executive Officer in December 2019 and assumed command as the 14th Commanding Officer of USS BULKELEY (DDG 84) in August 2021. In June 2022, he reported to Naval Station Norfolk as Chief Staff Officer.

His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (x4), Navy Achievement Medal (x2), and various unit and campaign decorations.