Frank Sanchez

Captain Sanchez is a native of New York and attended the United States Merchant Marine Academy, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marine Engineering Systems with a minor in Environmental Engineering. He is a graduate of the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Weapons School, the U.S. Air Force Air Command and Staff College Non-resident Program for Joint Professional Military Education Phase I, the Joint Forces Staff College Joint Professional Military Education Phase II, and the 
University of Oklahoma with a Master of Arts in Administrative Leadership.

Upon qualification in the S-3B “Viking,” Captain Sanchez’s first operational assignment included two combat deployments aboard the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom and two counter drug detachments in support of USSOUTHCOM. After transition to the P-3C “Orion,” Captain Sanchez’ second operational assignment included a third combat deployment to Iraq in support of OIF. After transition to the P-8A “Poseidon,” Captain Sanchez completed two deployments to Kadena Air Base, Japan and NAS Sigonella, Italy.

Ashore, Captain Sanchez’ assignments include Aide de Camp to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan, Weapons and Tactics Instructor at the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Fleet Replacement Squadron, Action Officer in J-3 of the Joint Staff and Assignments Officer at Naval Personnel Command.

Captain Sanchez assumed command of Patrol Squadron FIVE in May 2021. He led the squadron through a fleet response training plan, rapid response deployment in support of USEUCOM contingencies, and a deployment to the USINDOPACOM theater.

In October 2023, Captain Sanchez was selected for Aviation Major Command.