Michael D. Lumpkin is an extraordinary American leader who served as the former Deputy Commander, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Arabian Peninsula for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mike has also deployed to Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, and the Philippines in support of our nation’s ongoing Global War on Terrorism.

Mike has a Master’s Degree in National Security Affairs and he is recognized by the Department of Defense as a specialist in both the Western Hemisphere and Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict.

As a Navy SEAL, Mike served eight operational tours and one as Commanding Officer of a Team. Two of these assignments were in the Republic of Panama. In Latin America, he was formally recognized by the Armed Forces Preparedness Association for his Outstanding Contributions to National Security while conducting counter-narcotics operations.

Mike also served as the Officer in Charge of the training and readiness of all West Coast SEAL Teams. The Teams he trained performed magnificently in the invasion of both Afghanistan and Iraq while sustaining no casualties.

Mike’s final assignment in the military was in United States Special Operations Command Office of Legislative Affairs in Washington, D.C. where he served as liaison to the United States Congress on policy and appropriation issues supporting our nation’s Special Operations Forces.

During his 21 years of service, Mike has received over 40 commendations and awards and was selected for promotion to Captain (O-6) in 2007. Mike retired from the Navy in the summer of 2007 in order to continue his service to our nation as the 52nd District’s next Congressman.