CAPT Mark R. Milliken

Commanding Officer
USS INDEPENDENCE (CV 62)

Following his initial training at VT-10, and advanced training in Airborne Tactical Data Systems in the E-2C Hawkeye, Captain Milliken was designated a Naval Flight Officer in October 1976 and assigned to the "Steeljaws" of VAW-122. While at VAW-122, he deployed on USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63) and USS INDEPENDENCE (CV 62).

In 1980, Captain Milliken was assigned to the "Greyhawks" of VAW-120 as an instructor and model manager of the E-2C. During his tour, he was selected as the Hawkeye of the Year.

From 1983 through 1985, Captain Milliken served as the Operations Officer with the "Tigertails" of VAW-125 deploying on USS SARATOGA (CV 60). During his tour, he was selected as the NAVAL AIR FORCES ATLANTIC FLEET Naval Flight Officer of the year.

In September 1985, Captain Milliken reported as the Personal Aide to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations in Washington D.C. In March 1987, he served as the Flag Lieutenant and Personal Aide to the Commander-in-Chief of Allied forces Southern Europe and Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Naval Forces, Europe.

Captain Milliken reported to the "Bluetails" of VAW-121 as the Executive Officer in October 1988 and assumed duties of Commanding Officer the following year. During his command tour, the "Bluetails" were awarded the Battle "E", Airborne Early Warning Excellence Award, Meritorious Unit Citation, and flew as the Airborne Early Warning platform deployed on USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69) during Operation DESERT SHIELD.

From February 1991 through January 1992, Captain Milliken served as the Commanding Officer of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Weapons School. He assumed the position of Executive Officer of USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64) in June of 1992.

From February 1994 until November 1994, Captain Milliken served as the Chief of Staff for Commander Carrier Airborne Early Warning Wing Pacific. In December 1994, he assumed command of USS LASALLE (AGF 3), the Sixth Fleet Flag/Command ship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy.

In May 1996, Captain Milliken was assigned as the Commander Seventh Fleet Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations. He was assigned his present duty in August 1997.

Captain Milliken is married to the former T. Elizabeth Zingarelli of Apalachicola, Florida. They have one daughter, Emily.