Freeman [USNA '24] receives SWO pin presented by CDR Andrew Vann, USN [USNA '09]

Lieutenant Junior Grade Lillian Freeman was awarded her Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) Pin on August 3, 2026, onboard her ship USS Preble (DDG 88) stationed in Yokosuka, Japan. The SWO pin is a career milestone for Surface Navy Officers which typically takes 18 months to earn and consists of a number of qualifications including those in Damage Control, Engineering, Maritime Warfare, and Bridge Watchstanding. Notably, SWOs must get qualified as Officer of the Deck (Underway) where they gain their captain’s authority to maneuver the ship from the Bridge in his absence.

In the process of getting qualified LTJG Freeman has stood over 1,000 bridge hours in the Pacific Command’s Area of Responsibility. Lillian is currently serving as the Electrical Officer onboard her ship and was awarded her SWO pin by her Commanding Officer, Commander Andrew Vann, and was pinned by the ship’s Main Propulsion Assistant.

Lillian is a 2020 graduate of North Myrtle Beach High School and a 2024 graduate of the United States Naval Academy where she majored in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.

BZ '24 and '09!