H. Denby Starling II

rear admiral, commanding the USS JFK

Vice Admiral H. Denby Starling II assumed command of Naval Network Warfare Command on June 15, 2007. He is responsible for operating, maintaining and defending Navy networks, and conducting information operations and space operations. Overseeing a global force of more than 14,000, he is also the functional Component Commander to U.S. Strategic Command for space, information operations and network operations. He was designated a Naval Flight Officer in March 1975, and a Naval Aviator in March 1983. At sea, Vice Adm. Starling flew the A-6 Intruder with the Black Falcons of VA-85, the Golden Intruders of VA-128 as an instructor, and the Milestones of VA-196 as a department head. Additionally, he served as the commissioning executive officer of USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Ashore, Vice Adm. Starling served on the staff of Medium Attack Tactical Electronic Warfare Wing, Pacific, and as a student at the Naval War College, where he graduated with Highest Distinction. His first flag assignment was to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in Northwood, U.K., as the Assistant Chief of Staff, Operations, Intelligence and Exercises, for the Commander-in-Chief East Atlantic/Commander Allied Naval Forces Northern Europe.