Commander Robert Perris

Commanding Officer, Blue Crew, USS Kentucky

Commander Robert Perris grew up in an Army family and had the opportunity to live at multiple bases while growing up. He is a 2007 graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was commissioned via the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) program. He also holds a Masters in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University.

Commander Perris assumed his duties as Commanding Officer of USS Kentucky (SSBN 737) (Blue) on 1 November 2024.

His previous sea tours include division officer assignments on USS Florida (SSGN 728) (Gold) completing three AFRICOM deployments and supporting Operation Odyssey Dawn. He served as Engineer Officer onboard USS Maryland (SSBN 738) (Blue) completing the ship’s Engineered Refueling Overhaul, Demonstration and Shakedown Operation and three strategic deterrent patrols. As Executive Officer onboard USS Charlotte (SSN 766), he completed the ship’s Engineering Overhaul and return to service.

His shore assignments include Shift Engineer at Naval Power Training Unit - Ballston Spa; Force Radiological Controls Officer for Commander, Submarine Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet; and Director, Nuclear Field and Non-Nuclear Submarine accessions for Commander, Navy Recruiting Command.

His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), as well as other unit and campaign awards.