CAPT Russell Caldwell

Commander, Naval Surface Group Southwest (CNSGSW)

31 January 2025 Captain Russell Caldwell graduated from the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps and University of Kansas with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science in May of 1998. Captain Caldwell is original for Johannesburg, South Africa.

Following completion of the Surface Warfare Officers School Division Officer Course, Captain Caldwell reported to USS THACH (FFG 43) in Yokosuka, Japan. He completed tours on USS GARY (FFG 51), USS CHOSIN (CG 65), USS O’KANE (DDG 77), and USS COWPENS (CG 63). He graduated from Naval Postgraduate School with a Master of Science in Information Operations. Ashore, he completed tours in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations at N51, Deputy Executive Assistant to OPNAV N3/N5, U.S Naval Forces Central Command as Fires Officer, the Executive Assistant to Commander Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center, and as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Force Readiness (N4) at Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Captain Caldwell commanded USS ROSS (DDG 71) in Rota, Spain. He also commanded USS ANTIETAM (CG 54) in Yokosuka, Japan and USS MOBILE BAY (CG 53) in San Diego, California.

He assumed the duties as Commander, Naval Surface Group Southwest on 31 January 2025.

Captain Caldwell’s awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various unit awards.