Commander Clayton Johnson is a native of Crawford, Texas. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. After commissioning, he reported to NAS Pensacola to begin flight training, and was designated a Naval Aviator in December 2008 in Kingsville, Texas.
His initial operational assignment was with the “Gunslingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 105 aboard Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, where he served in multiple division officer roles and completed a combat deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. He served next as an instructor pilot and operations representative with the “Gladiators” of VFA-106, the east coast FA-18A-F fleet replacement squadron. He then joined the “Checkmates” of VFA-211 for a combat deployment to the Mediterranean Sea in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE.
While on deployment in 2018, he redesignated to Full-Time Support/Training and Administration of the Reserves (FTS/TAR) Officer. After returning home, he served as Operations and Maintenance Department Head with the “Fighting Omars” of VFC-12. While at VFC-12, he graduated from the TOPGUN Adversary Course and led the adversary force in multiple large-force exercises at bases throughout the country. After serving in six consecutive operational squadrons, he moved into a staff role with Commander, Naval Air Forces Reserve where he supported the security needs of Reserve Component aviation units. He assumed the role of Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Executive Officer in June 2023.
Commander Johnson has flown over 2,300 flight hours, primarily in the F/A-18 A-F family of Hornets and Super Hornets. He has performed over 300 arrested carrier landings, including more than 100 night arrested carrier landings aboard the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN-75). He has earned multiple personal decorations, including an Air Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals, and various campaign and unit citations.
Last Updated: 14 June 2023