Biography for CDR Charles M. Stickney, USN
CDR Stickney was born in Charlotte, NC and raised in Chapin, SC. He graduated from Auburn University in 1995 with a degree in Aerospace Engineering, was commissioned and reported to Pensacola, FL for flight training. After designation as a Naval Aviator in 1997 he reported to San Diego for training in the S-3B Viking and was subsequently assigned to the Topcats of VS-31 in Jacksonville, FL. With the Topcats CDR Stickney deployed aboard USS EISENHOWER (CVN-69) and USS KENNEDY (CV-67) in support of Operations SOUTHERN WATCH and ENDURING FREEDOM. He served as the Flight Officer, Aircraft Division Officer, NATOPS Officer and Tactics Instructor.
Selected for community transition as part of the Viking Sundown Plan in 2002, CDR Stickney transferred to the VQ-1 World Watchers in Whidbey Island, WA. He deployed to the CENTCOM and PACOM AORs and served as the Aircraft Division Officer, Mission Commander and Instructor Pilot in the EP-3. In 2004 he reported to COMOPTEVFOR in Norfolk, VA and served as Aide and Flag LT. In 2005 he reported to Air Command and Staff College in Montgomery, AL where he obtained a Masters of Military Operational Art and Science and completed JPME Phase I.
At the completion of Staff College he reported to the Rangers of VQ-2 in Whidbey Island for his Department Head tour. He was the Safety Officer, Warfare Development Officer, Officer-in-Charge of the VQ Central Command detachment, and the Operations Officer.
In 2009 CDR Stickney reported to Headquarters, US Pacific Fleet, in Honolulu, HI and served as the Reconnaissance Operations Officer. During this tour he deployed to Japan in support of Operation TOMODACHI, the assistance effort following the 2011 Tokohu earthquake and Fukushima nuclear emergency. His personal decorations include the Strike/Flight Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), Navy Achievement Medal (two awards) and various campaign, service and unit awards.