James Symonds

James A. Symonds (born January 6, 1953) is an American retired rear admiral of the United States Navy who last served as Commander, Navy Region Northwest, based in Silverdale, Washington. He was the former commanding officer of the aircraft carrier . He had a prominent, symbolic role in the state funeral of former United States President Ronald Reagan in 2004.

Early life and education Symonds is a native of Sodus, New York. He presided over the ship's transfer from Norfolk, Virginia to its homeport in San Diego, California. at the time, it was Symonds. Following a national funeral service in the Washington National Cathedral and six days of public mourning, Symonds presented Nancy Reagan with the flag at President Reagan's gravesite at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library prior to his interment. His more recent posts have been Navy Director of Environmental Readiness and commander of the Navy Region Northwest, a position he took up in July 2007.

Awards

Defense Superior Service Medal Legion of Merit (three awards) Meritorious Service Medal (four awards)

Strike Flight Medal Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards) Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards)

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