CDR Eric “KJ” Kaijankoski

EXECUTIVE OFFICER, USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG 93)

30 September 2025 A native of Eugene, Oregon, Commander Eric Kaijankoski enlisted in 1995 as a Quartermaster and was commissioned in 2010 via Officer Candidate School.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Thomas Edison State University, a Master of Arts in National Security Affairs – Homeland Security from the Naval Postgraduate School and completed JPME Phase 1.

As a Surface Warfare Officer, his sea tours include Electrical Officer, Force Protection Officer, and Navigator in USS MITSCHER (DDG 57). As Department Head, he served as Plans and Tactics Officer and Combat Systems Officer in USS FARRAGUT (DDG 99). With 30 years of Naval service, Commander Kaijankoski has completed ten deployments to the FOURTH, FIFTH, SIXTH, and SEVENTH FLEET Areas of Responsibility.

Assignments ashore include Battle Watch Captain at Third Fleet, San Diego, CA; Placement Officer and Junior Officer Sea Coordinator in Surface Warfare Assignments Branch, PERS-41 and Enlisted Placement Branch Head, PERS-40.

In September 2025, Commander Kaijankoski reported as Executive Officer in USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG 93), homeported in San Diego, CA.

Personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (2), Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3), Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal (6), and multiple unit, campaign, and service awards.