CDR. Lodmell entered the Navy through the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate program in 1979, while attending the University of Tennessee. The native of Beckley, W.Va., completed a bachelor of science degree in analytical chemistry, and then attended Officer Candidate School, Newport, R.I., receiving his commission in 1980.

Upon completion of nuclear power training and submarine school, he headed to his first sea-going command, USS Houston (SSN 713), where he served as the chemistry and radiological controls assistant, reactor controls assistant and damage control assistant.  He then was assigned to the staff of the Director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion.

He reported to USS Whale (SSN 638) in 1988, as engineer officer.  This tour included deployments to both the Mediterranean and North Atlantic. He served on the staff of Commander in Chief U.S. Naval Forces Europe in London, England, from 1991 to 1993. CDR. Lodmell's next sea tour was as executive officer of USS Stonewall Jackson (SSN 634) (Gold).  He completed one strategic patrol before being assigned as the executive officer USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) (Blue),  here in Kings Bay.

Just prior to assuming his current assignment as commanding officer of USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) (Gold) in June 1997, CDR. Lodmelll graduated with distinction with a master of arts degree in national security affairs from the Naval War College in Newport, R.I.

He is authorized to wear the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), and the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal, as well as many other unit and service awards.