Captain Trent Hesslink, USN, joined the War College staff in 2017. Previously, he served as the Deputy Division Chief for Nuclear Operations, Joint Staff. Captain Hesslink has served on four submarines and completed multiple deployments in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea. He has also completed three Strategic Deterrent Patrols on a ballistic missile submarine as Executive Officer. Captain Hesslink commanded the USS ALBUQUERQUE (fast attack submarine) where he completed a deployment to the Indian Ocean. Captain Hesslink has served multiple tours in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, including Officer-in-Charge of a Nuclear-powered Training Unit. Captain Hesslink was raised in Northern Colorado and started his service by enlisting in the Navy. Captain Hesslink has received numerous medals and awards to include the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards). He is an alumnus of the University of Washington and received a Master of Science from National War College. Captain Hesslink and his family live in Northern Virginia.
FUNCTIONAL EXPERTISE: Submarine Operations; Nuclear Command and Control; Nuclear Operations
REGIONAL EXPERTISE: None
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