Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

CDR Michael L. Smith Executive Officer - Blue Crew

USS Independence Blue and Gold Leadership Commanding Officer - Blue Leadership CDR Gagliano Executive Officer - Blue Leadership CDR Smith Command Senior Chief - Blue Leadership NCCS Cline Commanding Officer - Gold Leadership CDR Back Executive Officer - Gold Leadership CDR Gray Command Master Chief - Gold Leadership CMDCM(SW/AW) Curtin

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Native of Phoenix Arizona and raised in Southern California, CDR Smith is an alumni of the University of San Diego, receiving a BA in History and a commission through the NROTC program in 1997.

CDR Smith's sea duty includes assignments as Ship's Maintenance Material Officer and OI Division Officer in USS PELELIU (LHA 5), First Lieutenant and Operations Officer in USS GUNSTON HALL (LSD 44), and Operations Officer (N3) in Amphibious Squadron Eight. CDR Smith has operated within both the SECOND and THIRD Fleets and completed deployments to the FIFTH, SIXTH, and SEVENTH Fleet area of operations.

Shore duty assignments include Operations Officer in Mobile Inshore Undersea Warfare Unit (MIUWU) 105, OPNAV N86 Manpower Branch Head and Deputy Executive Assistant (DEA) to the Director of Surface Warfare (OPNAV N86), and Force Personnel Officer for Commander Naval Surface Forces Pacific.

CDR Smith earned his Masters in National Security and Strategic Studies at the Naval War College, graduating with highest distinction and earning the Thys Prize for academic achievement. CDR Smith's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five awards), the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various other personal and unit awards.