Navy's 'Top Gun' for Warships Led by Local Hero

Capt. Chad Trubilla, originally from Tamaqua, has taken command of the Navy's Surface Advanced Warfighting School (SAWS) located in San Diego. This prestigious program is often likened to the famed 'Top Gun' school but is dedicated to training naval officers for surface warfare.

With 25 years of service in the Navy, Trubilla now oversees the rigorous 16-week curriculum at SAWS, which opened in 2024. He is responsible for developing the next generation of warfare tactics instructors, who specialize in areas like missile defense and anti-submarine warfare.

Trubilla credits his upbringing in Tamaqua for instilling the core values of discipline, hard work, and accountability that have guided his naval career. He emphasizes that these principles, learned from his family and community, are crucial for maintaining readiness and leading effectively.

Prior to his current role, Trubilla held significant commands, including commanding the USS Rafael Peralta and serving as the commanding officer of the Surface Combat Systems Training Center. He also played a foundational role in establishing the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center more than a decade ago.