Forrest Silas Petersen (May 16, 1922 – December 8, 1990), (VADM, USN), was a United States Navy aviator and test pilot.

[1] He was one of twelve pilots who flew the North American X-15, an experimental spaceplane jointly operated by the Air Force and NASA.

Prior to his admission to the United States Naval Academy, he attended the University of Nebraska for two years.

He continued studies for one year at Princeton University and received a Master of Science degree in Engineering.

During that time, he made five free flights in the X-15 and achieved a speed of 3,600 mph (5,800 km/h) (Mach 5.3) and an altitude of about 102,000 feet (31 km).

He reported to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise in January 1964 and served as Executive Officer until April 1966.

In November 1967, he assumed command of USS Bexar in the Pacific Fleet Amphibious Forces.

Following an eight-month deployment with the United States Seventh Fleet Amphibious Forces in the Western Pacific, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V. He then served as Commanding Officer of USS Enterprise (July 8, 1969 – December 3, 1971).