LtCol Allen was born in Sacramento, California. He attended the University of California, San Diego, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science in May 2007. He received his Naval Aviator designation in 2010 and was selected to fly the F/A-18 Hornet.
After his initial training in the Hornet at NAS Lemoore, Captain Allen reported to Marine Aircraft Group 11 in San Diego, CA where he joined the “Red Devils” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232. During his initial tour, Capt Allen served as NATOPS/Ground Safety Officer, Administration Officer, and Director of Safety and Standardization and deployed twice as part of the Unit Deployment Program (UDP) to Iwakuni, Japan.
In June 2014, Capt Allen reported to the “Sharpshooters” of VMFAT-101. There he served as an Instructor Pilot in the F/A-18C/D as well as holding jobs in the safety department and the Air-to-Ground shop. During his time with VMFAT-101, Capt Allen attended the Navy’s Strike Fighter Weapons School “TOPGUN”.
In February 2017, Capt Allen reported to the “Death Rattlers” of VMFA-323. During his time with the Death Rattlers, he served as the Operations Officer and the Aircraft Maintenance Officer. In June, 2017 he deployed on the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. In May 2018, Major Allen completed the MAWTS-1 Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course.
In September 2019, Major Allen reported to the “Bats” of VMFA(AW)- 242. During his time in the Bats, Maj Allen served as assistant Operations Officer and Pilot Training Officer.
In October 2020, Maj Allen once again reported to the “Rough Raiders” of VFA-125 to receive training in the F-35C. During his time with the Rough Raiders, Maj Allen served as an Instructor Pilot, Administration Officer, Safety Officer, and Government Program Manager.
In June 2023, Lieutenant Colonel Allen reported to Headquarters, Marine Corps Aviation at the Pentagon where he served as the F-35 Transition Task Force lead. During this time, LtCol Allen was selected for command of the “Black Sheep” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 214.
LtCol Allen’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (Strike/Flight, first award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (third award), and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (second award). Additionally, LtCol Allen has accrued over 2,140 mishap free flight hours.