A native of Little River, Kansas, Commander Oswalt graduated from Kansas State University in 1993. He joined the Navy in 1995 as an enlisted Radioman and received his commission through Officer Candidate School. After designation as a Naval Aviator, Commander Oswalt operationally flew the S-3B Viking and P-3C Orion. He instructed in both aircraft, along with the T-45C Goshawk.
At sea, Commander Oswalt served in Sea Control Squadron 21 (VS 21) and completed five deployments while flying the S-3B from the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), four in 7th Fleet and one in 5th Fleet. He conducted three 5th Fleet, one 7th Fleet and one 4th Fleet deployments while flying the P-3C in Patrol Squadrons (VP) 40 and 46. While assigned to these commands, Commander Oswalt participated in Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn.
Shore tours include Training Squadron 9 (VT 9), the Joint Staff Deployable Training Team, and as U.S. Naval Attaché to Pakistan. He was selected to command CJTF-82 in Paktika Province, Afghanistan and completed a tour as the Commanding Officer of Naval Recruiting District Minneapolis. Commander Oswalt attended the Naval War College, earning a MA in National Security and Strategic Studies. He also earned a MA in Leadership from St. Mary’s University.
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Commander Oswalt’s awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2 awards), Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (6 Strike/Flight awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2 awards and Combat V), Navy and Marine Corp Achievement Medal (4 awards), Battle "E" (4 awards), and various campaign and service awards. He has logged over 3200 flight hours and 143 combat missions.
Last Updated: 9 May 2022