Commander Mark S. Ginda, a native of Kansas City, Missouri, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering.

After completion of initial nuclearpower training, Commander Ginda served as Chemistry and Radiological Controls Assistant and Main Propulsion Assistant on USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654)(BLUE) from March 1984 to September 1996, conducting strategic deterrent patrols from Holy Loch, Scotland. In October 1986, he reported to Naval Nuclear Power School in Orlando, Florida, for instructor duty and assignment as Division Director, Enlisted Specialized Instruction. During this tour he was designated as a Master Training Specialist.

Commander Ginda reported to USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSN 617)(BLUE) in May 1989, serving as Engineer Officer until May 1991. While Engineer Officer, he conducted Demonstration and Shakedown Operations in addition to strategic deterrent patrols. In July 199 1, he relieved as Officer in Charge, Historic Ship NAUTILUS (SSN 571). From November 1993 to December 1994, Commander Ginda pursued postgraduate education at the Naval War College, earning a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies, and traveling to Russia as part of a student exchange program.

Commander Ginda reported to USS SAND LANCE (SSN 660) in March 1995 and served as Executive Officer until October 1996, participating in a major NATO submarine rescue exercise and an extended Arctic deployment, including surfacing at the North Pole. From N ovember 1996 to August 1998, he was Flag Secretary to Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He is entitled to wear the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), and the Navy Achievement Medal (four awards), in addition to unit and service awards. 

Commander Ginda relieved as Commanding Officer of USS PASADENA (SSN 752) on 9 June 1999.