Xavier Valverde:  

Commander Xavier ¿X¿ F. Valverde was born and raised in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. He enlisted into the U.S. Navy in 1982 and upon completion of Machinist Mate ¿A¿ School, he reported to USS LUCE (DDG 38). His next assignment was USS NEW JERSEY (BB 62) in 1983-1985 where he deployed to the Mediterranean Sea in support of the Multi-National Peacekeeping Force in Beirut, Lebanon. CDR Valverde was selected for the Broadened Opportunity for Officers Selection and Training (BOOST) program, and upon completion, attended the University of Washington where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. He was commissioned an Ensign in 1990 and immediately reported to Armada Royal de Argentina (ARA) LIBERTAD to serve as an exchange officer. Aboard ARA LIBERTAD, he deployed to the Mediterranean Sea, and the North and South Atlantic Oceans. Upon completion of Surface Warfare Officers School in San Diego, he reported to USS MAHLON S. TISDALE (FFG 27). He served as Damage Control Assistant, First Lieutenant and Navigator and deployed to the Eastern Pacific Ocean to execute counter-drug operations. CDR Valverde graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School in March 1997, earning a Master of Science degree in Systems Management. He attended Department Head School and reported to the Pre-Commissioning Unit of USS PEARL HARBOR (LSD 52) in October 1997, serving as First Lieutenant until August 1999. CDR Valverde then reported to USS BONHOMM...Expand for more