Congratulations to LCDR Stephen Cortez, Carrier Strike Group FIVE.

LCDR Cortez continually distinguished himself by demonstrating unmatched cryptologic skills, dedicated performance, and sterling leadership throughout his career.

Starting in the enlisted Cryptologic Technician Technical (CTT) rating, LCDR Cortez served in Airborne Special Projects, accumulating over 1700 flight hours, at sea on board USS CAPE ST. GEORGE, as an intern in the prestigious Military Electronic Intelligence Signals Analysis Program, and at the Officer of Naval Intelligence. 

Upon commissioning, his impeccable service continued with tours as an EP-3E Special Evaluator where he accumulated an additional 1750 flight hours, as Squadron Operations Officer and Troop Commander with Navy Special Warfare Development Group, and as the Cryptologic Warfare Community Limited Duty Officer, Chief Warrant Officer, Cyber Warfare Engineer, and New Accession Detailer.

Currently serving as the Carrier Strike Group FIVE Cryptologic Resource Coordinator, LCDR Cortez is driving afloat cryptologic operations in the Great Power Competition.