Captain Leonard (Len) E. Haynes is a native of Pickens, South Carolina. He graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science in athletic training. He enlisted in the Navy in August of 1999 and served as an electronics technician (navigation) on USS ASHEVILLE (SSN 758) from July 2000 to September 2000. Captain Haynes commissioned in February 2001 via Officer Candidate School.
Captain Haynes served his division officer tours on USS DONALD COOK (DDG 75) as the Auxiliaries officer and USS VINCENNES (CG 49) as the Fire Control Officer. He earned his master’s degree in operations research from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.
After completing Department Head School, Captain Haynes served as the Engineering Officer aboard USS ARDENT (MCM 12), USS CHIEF (MCM 14) as part of MCM Crew CONFLICT and aboard USS NEW ORLEANS (LPD 18).
Captain Haynes reported to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV N1) staff, where he served as the Joint Action Control Officer. Upon completion, Captain Haynes reported to Afloat Training Group San Diego as the engineering training scheduler. He also served as the Executive Officer aboard USS PRINCETON (CG 59) and Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron THREE, where he assumed command in August 2019. Follow on tours include Chief Staff Officer, Amphibious Squadron ONE; Deputy Assistant Director, OPNAV N81C; and OPNAV N81 Chief of Staff.
His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (3 awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (5 awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2 awards), and various campaign and service awards.aptain Leonard (Len) E. Haynes
Last Updated: 18 December 2025