Lt. Cmdr. David F. Buitrago enlisted in the United States Navy in 2001 and served with Patrol Squadron 30 (VP 30) and Patrol Squadron 9 (VP 9) as an Aviation Structural Mechanic. He received his commission in 2010 through the Seaman to Admiral Program and was designated a Surface Warfare Officer. He graduated with honors from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering and holds a master's degree in Naval Mechanical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School.
His assignments at sea include combat information center officer aboard USS Tortuga (LSD 46), training officer aboard USS Lassen (DDG 82), and plans and tactics officer on USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).
Buitrago deployed to U.S. 5th and 7th Fleets in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. He was forward deployed to U.S. 7th Fleet two times supporting multiple exercises and South China Sea patrols as well as Operation Tomodachi in the wake of the tsunami disaster in Japan on 2011. He also deployed to U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets with the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group in 2021.
Buitrago assumed duties as the Executive Officer of the Naval Support Activity Crane on April 11, 2022.
His personal decorations include Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and various unit and campaign awards.
Last Updated: 28 July 2023