CMDCM (SW) Michael P. Bates Command Master Chief
Master Chief Bates is a native of New Orleans, LA. He joined the Navy on February 8, 1995 and attended boot camp at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, IL. After completion of recruit training in April of 1995, he reported to Data Systems Technician “A” School, Great Lakes, IL with follow on orders to Data Display Technical “C” School, Dam Neck, VA.
Master Chief Bates fleet assignments include USS SPRUANCE (DD 963) September 1996 – February 2001, Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity (SIMA)/ Southeast Regional Maintenance Center (SERMC) February 2001 – April 2004, Advanced Tomahawk Weapon Control System “A” School CSCS Damneck, Va. April 2004 - August 2004, USS THE SULLIVANS (DDG 68) August 2004 – January 2008, Afloat Training Group (ATG) Mayport, FL. January 2008 – February 2011, Command Master Chief USS UNDERWOOD (FFG 36) April 2011- March 2013, Command Master Chief USS VICKSBURG (CG 69) March 2013 - Present.
Master Chief Bates is a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy and holds an Associate’s Degree in Science/Technical studies from Excelsior College, Albany, NY. Additionally, he has earned his Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist and Afloat Training Specialist designations.
His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (6 awards), Military Outstanding Voluntary Service Medal, and various unit and campaign awards.