TW2 R.C. Leadership

Commander

Commander Nathan D. Atkinson graduated from Texas A&M University in 2003 earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He received his commission from Officer Candidate School in November 2003 and earned his Wings of Gold in May 2006 being named to the Training Air Wing Two Commodore’s List. He is a 2014 graduate of Johns Hopkins University earning a Master of Science in Systems Engineering and a 2022 graduate of United States Naval War College earning a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies.

After the completion of E-2C flight training at VAW-120, in Norfolk, VA, CDR Atkinson was assigned to the “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 where he completed two combat deployments with CVW-14 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. He then transferred to shore duty at VX-1 to begin Initial Operational Test and Evaluation of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye. He was selected to class 141 of the United States Naval Test Pilot School and upon graduation in 2012 was assigned to VX-20 as the Aerial Refueling Project Officer developing and testing the Auxiliary Stability Augmentation System (AUX SAS) for E-2D aerial refueling. He was selected as the 2014 Hawkeye Pilot of the Year, Ashore.

He transitioned to the Selected Reserves (SELRES) in 2015 and was selected to ACCLOGWING SAU supporting 12 Operational VAW/VRC squadrons and VAW-120 as an E-2 flight instructor. He continued testing and qualifying the E-2D for Aerial Refueling behind the KC-130, Omega, KC-10, KC-135, and F/A-18 tankers, developed the E-2 AR training syllabus, and trained the initial cadre of VAW-120 Aerial Refueling Instructors. He was awarded the 2017 CTSW SAU Officer Leadership Award by Commander, Tactical Support Wing. He was selected for assumed command of ACCLOGWING SAU in 2022 where he led over 95 officers and enlisted sailors supporting 12 operational squadrons and the FRS.

In November 2025, CDR Atkinson assumed the duties of Commander, Training Air Wing TWO Reserve Component located onboard NAS Kingsville, TX.

Commander Atkinson has flown over 25 type aircraft, accumulated over 3000 E-2 Hawkeye flight hours, and 168 arrested landings. His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Strike Flight Air Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various other personal, expeditionary, unit and campaign awards.