CMDCM(AW/IDW/SS/SW) Richard G. Curtis Jr., USN
Command Master Chief
Master Chief Curtis was born in Rhode Island. After graduating from High School he reported to recruit training in June 1990. He then attended MT “A” school and MT “C” school in Virginia.
His first assignment was as a Missile Technician onboard USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630)(G) homeported in South Carolina, where he earned his Submarine Warfare designation and completed three strategic deterrent patrols. In 1993 he laterally converted to Radioman and attended RM “A” school in Connecticut and RM “C” school in Washington. Subsequent sea tours as a Radioman include PCU MAINE (SSBN 741)(B) homeported in Connecticut; USS PENNSYLVANIA (SSBN 735)(G) completing one strategic deterrent patrol, homeported in Georgia; USS MAINE (SSBN 741)(B) completing six strategic deterrent patrols, homeported in Georgia; USS MAINE (SSBN 741)(G) completing five strategic deterrent patrols, homeported in Georgia; USS MARYLAND (SSBN 738)(G) completing four strategic deterrent patrols, homeported in Georgia; and USS RHODE ISLAND (SSBN 740)(G) completing one strategic deterrent patrol as the Chief of the Boat (COB), also homeported in Georgia. Additionally, he completed a sea tour at CINCUSNAVEUR EA CELL as an Emergency Action Controller in Italy.
His only shore duty assignment was as the Assistant Communications Officer at Commander, Submarine Squadron TWENTY Georgia.
In March 2012, Master Chief Curtis assumed duties as Command Master Chief of VFA-136 “KNIGHTHAWKS” homported in Virginia. While embarked in USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) he earned his Enlisted Aviation Warfare, Enlisted Surface Warfare and Information Dominance Warfare insignias.
Master Chief Curtis’ personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), Navy Achievement Medal (six awards), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Award (two awards) and other various campaign and unit awards. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Adult and Career Eduction in May 2009 from Valdosta State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude.