A native of Buffalo, New York, Rear Adm. Pirrone was commissioned in 1999 via ROTC at Tulane University, graduating with a BSE in civil engineering.  He also holds an MS in strategic studies (with highest academic distinction) from the Air War College. 

Pirrone is a naval aviator and started his career flying the FA-18F Super Hornet with VFA-2, completing two Western Pacific  deployments with CVW-2 onboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).  While on active duty, he also served as a selectively retained graduate instructor pilot with VT-7, a Fleet Replacement Squadron instructor pilot with VFA-125, and the Navy’s West Coast FA-18 Tactical Demonstration Team program manager. 

Following transition to the Navy Reserve, Pirrone completed his department head tour with the River Rattlers of VFA-204, flying the FA-18A+ Hornet, later taking over as executive officer and ultimately commanding officer.  Under his leadership, the River Rattlers earned recognition as Battle “E,” Safety “S,” Blue “M,” and Retention Excellence award recipients.  

Pirrone’s subsequent command tours included the Training Air Wing Five Reserve Component, Chief of Naval Air Training Reserve Component, and U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Navy Reserve Headquarters. 

Pirrone has accumulated over 3,500 flight hours and 250 arrested landings and is a graduate of the TOPGUN Adversary course.  His military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal and numerous other personal and unit awards.