LtCol J. Eric O’Harra is from Tucson, Arizona and entered the Marine Corps through the OCC program in 1991. Following designation as an Air Defense Control Officer and his first assignment was Marine Air Control Squadron 5, MCAS Beaufort, SC.
In 1997, he was transferred to Okinawa Japan where he served at MACS-4 and Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron. In 1998 he reported to MACS-1, MCAS Yuma, AZ, serving as, Early Warning/Control Detachment Commander and Tactical Air Operations Center Detachment Commander. In 2000, he deployed an Early Warning Control Detachment to Kuwait in support of Operation Southern Watch. In July of 2001, LtCol O’Harra reported to Marine Corps Communications and Electronics School as C Company Commander where he orchestrated the merger of all MOS 5900 and 7200 training. He transferred to MCAS Miramar in June of 2004 and served as OIC of the MACG Detachment attached to the 15th MEU supporting OIF and Operation Unified Assistance. Following the deployment he assumed the duties of Executive Officer MTACS-38. In Sept 2007, he transferred to HQMC Aviation serving as lead for the Aviation C2 Transition Task Force. Following his HQMC tour, LtCol O’Harra was assigned to III MEF prior to assuming command of Marine Air Control Squadron 4. From May 2011 – April 2013, MACS-4 participated in numerous exercises and contingency operations resulting in recognition as 2012 Marine Command and Control Squadron of the year. In June 2013, LtCol O’Harra joined the Wounded Warrior Regiment as the Operations Officer and he assumed his duties as Executive Officer on 1 May 2014.
LtCol O’Harra has served in numerous Marine Corps and Joint/Combined exercises/operations as well as deployments in support of Operation Southern Watch and OIF II. LtCol O’Harra is a graduate of WTI, Command and Staff Course, and Air War College.
His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with one gold star, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation (4th award), and Navy Marine Corps achievement Medal with one gold star. He is married to the former Madeline Levy of Newport Beach, CA.