CDR Marek Jestrab

EXECUTIVE OFFICER, USS GRIDLEY (DDG 101)

09 July 2025 Commander Jestrab is a native of Seattle and was raised in University Place, Washington. He received his commission in 2009 through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps program at the University of Memphis, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Sport and Leisure Management. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School with a Master in Business Administration, and the University of Washington with a Master of Arts in International Studies. 

A career Surface Warfare Officer, Jestrab’s previous afloat assignments include Operations Officer in USS BUNKER HILL (CG 52); Operations Officer in USS GLADIATOR (MCM 11); Navigator in USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG 93); and Main Propulsion Division Officer in USS CHAFFE (DDG 90).

Ashore, Jestrab has served as Senior US Navy Fellow at the Atlantic Council, an international affairs think tank in Washington, DC; Program Analyst for Surface Warfare and Shipbuilding in the Programing Division, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV N801 “Bullpen”); and Executive Officer for Navy Reserve Center Raleigh. 

Commander Jestrab’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (five awards), the Navy Achievement Medal (three awards), as well as various unit and campaign awards.