Petty Officer Kyle Carlstrom is a mass communication specialist currently assigned to Navy Reserve Navy Public Affairs Support Element.
Carlstrom, a native of San Diego, joined the Navy in August 2005. Upon completion of basic training, he completed the Basic Still Photography course at the Defense Information School as Photographer's Mate in February 2006. He then completed the Basic Public Affairs Specialist - Broadcast course, graduating in June 2006.
Upon completion of the broadcast course, he was assigned to American Forces Network Sasebo, Japan, as a radio and television broadcaster. During his time at AFN, he deployed as an independent-duty MC, creating content for forward-deployed naval force patrols in the 7th fleet area of responsibility, including Talisman Sabre 2007 with the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).
He transferred to the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), completing deployments in 2008, 2009, and 2011. In December 2008, he advanced to petty officer third class. In 2010, the Reagan participated in the Rim of the Pacific exercise. Following the 2011 deployment, the Reagan was dry-docked in 2012, where he advanced to petty officer second class. During his assignment to the Reagan, he participated in operations New Dawn, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Tomodachi.
Petty officer Carlstrom reported to Commander, Submarine Squadron 11 in Point Loma, Calif., as part of the public affairs staff in October 2012. During his assignment, he became the tour coordinator, embarked with submarines, and re-designed the command website. In 2014, he supported ICEX, a joint command mission to the Arctic Circle.
He returned to Sasebo, assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) in February 2016, where he participated in 5 patrols.
In 2018 he reported to Navy Public Affairs Support Element where he deployed with USS Somerset (LPD 25) for EXPONAVAL 2018. The following year he deployed with USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) for their first combat deployment. In 2020, petty officer Carlstrom was announced as the 2019 Navy and Military Photographer of the Year.
He transferred to the Select Reserve in August 2021, reporting to NRNPASE West, where he has participated in RIMPAC 2022, and advanced to petty officer first class in March 2023.
Petty officer Carlstrom's personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (4 awards), Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Battle "E" Efficiency Award (3 awards), and numerous other campaign and unit awards.
He is authorized to wear the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist insignias.
