Major Daniel S. Getchell grew up in East Sandwich Massachusetts. He graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in May of 2009, earning his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. After completion of The Basic School and Naval Flight Officer Training, he reported to VMFAT-101, Miramar, California for F/A-18D Hornet training.

In November of 2014, Major Getchell reported to VMFA(AW)-533. During this assignment, Major Getchell deployed twice to Iwakuni, once in 2014 and once in 2018. In 2016, Major Getchell deployed with VMFA (AW)-533 to Bahrain, where he flew in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE, flying 245 combat hours.

Major Getchell attended the Marine Division Tactics Course in 2017 and the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course in 2018. During his time in VMFA(AW)-533, Major Getchell served as the Legal Officer, Adjutant, Powerline Division Officer, WSO Training Officer and Operations Officer.

In October of 2019, Major Getchell was assigned to VMFA(AW)-242. With the Bats, Major Getchell filled the position of WSO Training Officer and helped transition 242 from the F/A-18D to the F-35.

In October of 2020, Major Getchell reported to VMFA-232 to serve as the senior Weapons System Officer as the squadron transitioned to a composite F/A-18 squadron. During this assignment, Major Getchell deployed in support of the Unit Deployment Program in 2021. Major Getchell currently holds the billet of Aircraft Executive Officer.

Major Getchell holds qualifications in the F/A-18D with over 1200 hours flown in the F/A-18 including 245 hours in combat. His decorations include the Air Medal (with numeral 6), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (Gold star in lieu of second award) and various unit and campaign awards.