Commander Aron Rotklein, a native of Alexandria, Virginia, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in Economics.
From July 2005 to September 2007, Commander Rotklein served aboard USS
Cleveland (LPD 7) as Gunnery Officer. During this tour, he completed a Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation, supporting the Global War on Terror.
From October 2007 to October 2009, Commander Rotklein served as Strike Officer and plank owner aboard USS
Sterett (DDG 104). He led the Strike Team through an intensive training cycle, culminating in the ship’s Cruise Missile Tactical Qualification prior to her maiden deployment in December 2009.
In October 2009, Commander Rotklein reported to OPNAV’s Project Handclasp in San Diego, California, as Assistant Operations and Logistics Officer. He coordinated the global distribution of over 4,100 tailored humanitarian pallets to more than 60 countries, advancing U.S. Navy humanitarian efforts worldwide.
From October 2013 to 2016, Commander Rotklein served aboard USS
Gridley (DDG 101) in San Diego, California, as Weapons Officer. Following a successful tour, he fleeted up to Combat Systems Officer during a 10-month deployment to the 5th Fleet in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
In July 2016, Commander Rotklein joined Navy Region Southwest Headquarters in San Diego as an Antiterrorism/Force Protection (ATFP) exercise assessor and planner, enhancing regional security preparedness.
In January 2019, he reported to Navy Region Europe, Africa, and Central in Naples, Italy, serving as Executive Assistant to the Region Commander, where he provided strategic support across a complex operational theater.
In December 2021, Commander Rotklein joined Strike Force NATO in Oeiras, Portugal, as the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Deputy within the J3 Directorate, contributing to alliance defense initiatives.
In 2025, Commander Rotklein assumed duties as Executive Officer of Naval Support Activity Washington, located at the Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C.
Last Updated: 17 July 2025