New command taking over VAQ-136 Sept. 1

CDR Matthew “Fredo” Bogue relieved CDR Christopher “Smiley” Hunter as VAQ-136 Commanding Officer in a change of command ceremony on Sept. 1, 2016.

Born in Keokuk, Iowa, and raised near Hannibal, Mo., CDR Bogue graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in botany and received his commission as an Ensign from the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (N-ROTC) program in 1997. After completing Naval Flight Officer training in Pensacola, Fla., he reported to VAQ-129 for Fleet Replacement Training in the EA-6B Prowler. Between 2001 and 2014, CDR Bogue deployed six times in support of Operation Southern Watch, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

In July 2014, CDR Bogue moved back to the Pacific Northwest and began Fleet Replacement transition training in the EA-18G with VAQ-129. After completion of the transition syllabus, CDR Bogue reported to the Gauntlets of VAQ-136 to serve as Executive Officer. In September 2015, CDR Bogue deployed with the Gauntlets in USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) to South America and participated in UNITAS PAC and UNITAS LANT exercises.

CDR Bogue has completed over 500 carrier arrested landings and 2,500 flight hours. His personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with Combat V, Strike/Flight Air Medal with numeral 7, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat V, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and several campaign and service awards. He and his wife Michele reside in Mukilteo with their sons Zachary, Seth and Cory.