Hakimzadeh’s career also included significant time ashore. He served with the VAW-120 Greyhawks as an FRS instructor, sharing his expertise and mentoring the next generation of naval aviators. Furthering his education, Hakimzadeh attended the Naval War College, where he completed advanced studies that would enhance his strategic and operational knowledge. Additionally, he pursued master’s degrees from Old Dominion University and Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.Hakimzadeh’s expertise was further recognized through several high-profile Pentagon assignments. He served with the Joint Staff (J-3) readiness division, the SOUTHCOM Washington field office, and in OPNAV N00X and N9I as a strike warfare analyst and assessment branch head. These roles required a deep understanding of military strategy and operations, and Hakimzadeh’s performance in these positions underscored his strategic acumen and leadership capabilities.One of the significant milestones in Hakimzadeh’s career was his appointment as the commanding officer of the USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20), a Blue Ridge-class amphibious command ship.