The U.S. Naval Academy named Capt.Matthew Klunder as the new commandant in charge of the 4,000 midshipmen at the Annapolis institution.
“He is superbly qualified to lead the brigade of midshipmen and brings a substantial amount of operational and leadership experience to the position,” said Vice Adm. Jeffrey Fowler, the academy?s superintendent.
Klunder replaces Capt. Margaret Klein, who will be promoted to rear admiral and assigned to Norfolk, Va.
Klein was the academy?s first female commandant.
As the academy?s 83rd commandant, Klunder will be in charge of the brigade?s education, military training and discipline.
Klunder, of Alexandria, Va., is a 1982 academy graduate who majored in physics and holds master?s degrees in aerodynamics, aviation systems and strategic studies.
He will be leaving his post as deputy chief of naval operations for information, plans and strategy.
He has been a naval aviator since 1984, flying information-gathering planes from aircraft carriers.
Klunder also commanded an air wing group that assisted in relief efforts during Hurricane Katrina and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
