I MEF Leaders
Commanding Officer, 9th Communication Battalion
Lt. Col. Kevin J. Stepp

LtCol Stepp, a native of Sierra Madre, California, graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Quantitative Economics and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant on 24 May 2002.  

LtCol Stepp’s principal command assignments include: Platoon Commander and S-6 1st Battalion / 8th Marines, where he deployed in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, and to provide humanitarian assistance with Special Purpose MAGTF Katrina.  As a Captain, Company Commander, Company M, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, MCRD San Diego; and Company Commander, Company B, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28.

LtCol Stepp’s principal staff assignments include: As a Captain, II MEF (FWD) AC/S G-6 Information Assurance Officer, where he deployed in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM; and Executive Officer, Bravo Detachment, Marine Air Control Group 28 Detachment, where he deployed in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.  As a Major, Operations Officer, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28; MAGTF Planner, US Marine Corps Forces Command; Aide-de-Camp to the Commander, US Marine Corps Forces Command; and J-6 Communications Operations Team Lead, Joint Special Operations Command.  As a Lieutenant Colonel, Deputy Chief, Cyber Security, Joint Special Operations Command.

LtCol Stepp possesses a Master of Science degree in Global Leadership from the University of San Diego, and Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the College of Naval Command and Staff, United States Naval War College.  He graduated from the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course; the Maritime Advanced Warfighting School; and is a Joint Qualified Officer.

LtCol Stepp’s personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three gold stars), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (one gold star), Humanitarian Service Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon.