Commanding Officer
Hopper Global Communications Center
Captain Taylor R. Forester assumed command of the Office of Naval Intelligence Hopper Global Communications Center in August 2025. Prior to this assignment, he served as the deputy for strategic engagement and portfolio integration for the Directorate for Enterprise Networks and Cybersecurity, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare (OPNAV N2N6D).
A native of Electra, Texas, Forester holds a Master of Science in Information Technology from Grantham University and a master’s degree in defense and strategic studies from the Naval War College. He served as an enlisted sailor for thirteen years, achieving the rank of Information Systems Technician Chief, before receiving his commission through the Limited Duty Officer program in June 2001. He converted to the information warfare community in 2012.
Forester’s sea tours include USS Makin Island (LHD 8) as the first West coast amphibious squadron information warfare commander, where his team conducted three multinational exercises and joint operations in support of Operation Octave Quartz and Northern Edge 21; USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) as the tactical action officer, combat systems and maintenance division officer, morale, welfare and recreation officer, and combat systems information officer; USS Nimitz (CVN 68) as the exterior communications division officer; and USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Merrill (DD 976) and USS Bristol County (LST 1198) as an enlisted Sailor.
Forester’s shore and staff tours include Office of Chief of Naval Operations where he served as the N2N6D deputy director for Navy enterprise networks and cybersecurity;
chief staff officer at Naval Information Forces Command (NAVIFOR), West where his leadership helped drastically increase fleet C5I readiness; Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3; a joint tour assignment at European Command Headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany where he supported Multi-Coalition Forces, Iraq; and Naval Air Forces, Pacific where he served as the information assurance officer.
Forester’s leadership tours include commanding officer for Tactical Communications Command (TCC) 1; information warfare commander for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 3; executive assistant to Rear Adm. Matt Kohler at NAVIFOR; and executive officer at Naval Computer Telecommunications Station, San Diego.
Forester personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal with Silver Star, Joint Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal with five gold stars, Navy Achievement Medal with five gold stars, and multiple service medals.