Graduating from the University of Notre Dame and commissioning through Navy ROTC in 2000, Captain Gaul currently serves as the Commanding Officer, Naval Support Activity Washington, at the Washington Navy Yard.
On December 21, 2001, CAPT Gaul earned designation as a Naval Aviator. He joined the "Eightballers" of HS-8 in August 2002 for his initial fleet assignment, where he conducted two deployments, including an around-the-world deployment aboard USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70). Following his fleet tour, he instructed at HSC Weapons School, Pacific.
In 2008, CAPT Gaul joined Carrier Air Wing THREE, completing one deployment before departing for NAF Atsugi, Japan, and his department head tour with the “Chargers” of HS-14. His tenure at HS-14 included humanitarian relief efforts during Operation TOMODACHI and two Western Pacific patrols aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73).
Returning to shore duty in 2013, CAPT Gaul joined U.S. Special Operations Command. While there, he served as Operations Officer for a Joint Task Force and the Navy representative on the Commander's Action Group.
In 2016, CAPT Gaul was fortunate to return to the “Chargers” for his command tour. There, he led the squadron through his second around-the-world deployment, this time as a member of the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) Strike Group. Following squadron command, he studied National Security Resource Strategy at the Eisenhower School.
Stepping back into the staff environment for his most recent tour, CAPT Gaul served as a branch chief in the Joint Staff, J8 Joint Capabilities Division. There, he led a diverse team through three Capability Gap Assessments, directly supporting the Joint Requirements Oversight Council's mission to shape the future Joint Force.
Honored to have served with exceptional teams, CAPT Gaul wears the Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (two strike/flight awards), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), and Humanitarian Service Medal as a testament to their efforts.
Last Updated: 10 July 2024