CDR Kristofer Tester

COMMANDING OFFICER, USS MUSTIN (DDG 89)

01 March 2024 A native of Toledo, Ohio, Commander Tester graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2006, earning his commission and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. He also earned a Master of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California in 2013.

CDR Tester’s Sea tours include assignments as the Communications and Combat Information Center Officer aboard USS Underwood (FFG 36); Fire Control Officer aboard USS Farragut (DDG 99); and Operations Officer and Senior Watch Officer aboard USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) and USS Lake Erie (CG 70). Most recently he served as Executive Officer aboard USS Mustin (DDG 89).

CDR Tester deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom in the Fifth Fleet area of operations, conducting counter-piracy and oil platform defense operations, as well as Ballistic Missile Defense Commander duties in support of the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group. Additionally, he deployed for tasking in the Sixth Fleet and Seventh Fleet areas of operation.

Ashore, he served as Flag Aide to the Commander, Naval Service Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. Additionally, he served as an Integrated Air and Missile Defense Warfare Tactics Instructor at the Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center Headquarters in San Diego, California, and as a post Department Head Detailer in PERS-41, Navy Personnel Command, Millington, Tennessee.

 CDR Tester’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various other campaign and unit awards.