Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Parker was born in New York City and lived in numerous states along the East Coast growing up as his father was an active-duty Marine. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a degree in Economics and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in May 2008. He was designated a Naval Aviator in April 2011.
After receiving his wings, First Lieutenant Parker reported to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 302 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, for initial training in the CH-53E. In February 2012, First Lieutenant Parker reported to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 465 aboard MCAS Miramar, California. He completed two deployments, both in support of the 31st MEU. He was promoted to Captain in July 2012. During his tenure at HMH 465, Captain Parker served as a schedule writer, Current Operations Officer, Flightline Officer Quality Assurance Officer and Aviation Safety Officer.
In June 2016, Captain Parker was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 302 where he served as the CH53E NATOPS program manager, Crew Resource Management program manager, and CH53E NATOPS Evaluator. Captain Parker was subsequently selected for assignment to Marine Helicopter Squadron (HMX-1), aboard Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Virginia. He was promoted to the rank of Major in June 2018. While at HMX-1, Major Parker was designated an Aircraft Commander in the VH-3D “Sea King” and VH-60N “White Hawk”, as well as a Presidential Command Pilot and White House Liason Officer. He proudly served under two different administrations during his four-year tenure at HMX-1.
In June 2022, Major Parker reported to Marine Air Group 16 aboard MCAS Miramar, California and was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 (HMH-466). He served as the Aircraft Maintenance Officer and deployed to Okinawa, Japan as part of the Unit Deployment Program. In November 2023, Major Parker was selected for the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In June 2024, LtCol Parker assumed the role of Personnel Support Detachment Commanding Officer for MAG-16 HQ.
In January 2025, LtCol Parker executed orders to MCAS Beaufort after being selected to command Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron Beaufort. LtCol Parker has over 2,200 mishap-free flight hours and his personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal with gold star, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. LtCol Parker possesses a Masters of Aeronautics degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. LtCol Parker is authorized to wear the Presidential Service Badge.