CDR Byron Stocks

Commanding Officer, USS Comstock (LSD 45)

08 November 2023 CDR Byron Stocks is a native of Anchorage, Alaska. He is a 2006 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy where he earned his commission and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

He reported to USS WINSTON S. CHURCHILL (DDG 81) in June 2006 as Electrical Officer, deploying with TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. In August 2008 he reported to his second sea tour as Weapons Admin Officer on USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) in support of RCOH, Operation UNIFIED RESPONSE, and a FOURTH Fleet UNITAS deployment. He reported in March 2014 to LCS Crew 206 as Combat Systems Officer with a follow-on tour as Operations Officer. While attached, his crew executed Total Ship Survivability Trials on USS CORONADO, and Full Ship Shock Trials and Sail Around onboard USS JACKSON. In February 2018 he reported to USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3) as the C5I Officer, leading her in a FIFTH Fleet deployment in support of KEARSARGE AMPHIBIOUS READINESS GROUP Operations, and helping her earn a third consecutive Battle Efficiency award for COMPHIBRON SIX. After previously serving as the executive officer, Stocks took command of USS COMSTOCK (LSD 45) in August, 2023.

Ashore, in September 2019 Stocks reported to the OPNAV N96 where he served as Requirements Officer for Surface Ship Operations and Support Programs. In June 2020 he earned a Master of Science in National Security Strategy from National War College in Washington, DC where he also completed Joint Professional Military Education Phase II.

His personal awards include four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and various campaign and unit awards. In 2019 he was awarded the COMPHIBRON SIX Surface Warfare Officer of the Year for inspirational leadership and tactical proficiency in recognition of his performance on USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3).