Cmdr. Daniel P. Claytor

Commanding Officer, Tactical Air Control Squadron 22

13 June 2023

Commander Dan “Eeyore” Claytor, is a native of Richmond, VA and a 2006 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering.  He holds a master’s degree from Embry Riddle University with a focus in Aerospace Science, Operations Management.  In June of 2008, he received his Naval Aviation designation in Pensacola, FL.

In 2008, Commander Claytor reported to the “Warhawks” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron TEN (HS-10) in San Diego, CA to complete Fleet Replacement Squadron Training.  His first operational assignment was with the “Dusty Dogs” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron SEVEN (HS-7), located in Jacksonville, FL, flying the SH-60F/HH-60H.  Following a deployment in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM/OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM, he disestablished HS-7 and became a Plank Owner of the newly designated squadron HSC-7.  He completed subsequent tours with the “Fleet Angels” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO (HSC-2) in Norfolk, VA as an MH-60S Instructor Pilot, and the “Dragonwhales” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWO EIGHT (HSC-28) for his aviation department head tour in Norfolk, VA.  While attached to HSC-28 he deployed to SIXTH FLEET AOR as OIC of the “Ghostriders” of DET ONE.  He served as the Maintenance and Operations Officer and stood up the squadron’s Airborne Mine Countermeasures capability with a detachment to the Baltic. 

Additionally, he was assigned to the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and USS George Washington (CVN-73) as a shooter in San Diego, CA and Norfolk, VA with a deployment to 5^th/6^th/7^th Fleet AORs.  Most recently, he reported from the Joint Staff, J-7 Deputy Directorate for Joint Training.

In February of 2022, CDR Claytor joined the Skylords of TACRON 22 as the Executive Officer.  On 19 May 2023, CDR Claytor became the 65th Commanding Officer of TACRON 22.

His personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (4 awards), Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit, campaign, and service awards. He and his wife Ashli reside in Chesapeake with their four children James (12), Annabeth (9), Avalee (4), and Jacob (6 months).