ASBURY PARK – Asbury Park native Command Master Chief Charles Myers serves aboard USS Carney, currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.
In 1996, Myers joined the Navy and has served for over 27 years.
“I joined because the Navy gave me an opportunity to finish my college studies through active-duty tuition assistance,” Myers said. “Additionally, I thought they would give me the best training and I could see the world.”
In October, Carney shot down multiple land-attack cruise missiles and unmanned aerial drones launched by Houthi forces in Yemen while the ship was operating in the northern Red Sea.
“The ship has since then engaged Houthi unmanned aerial drones on November 29, December 3 and December 16. Throughout all of the different engagements, Myers’ leadership and calm demeanor has helped the crew maintain a clear tactical picture,” the U.S. Navy said in a statement.
Throughout the engagement, Myers ensured sailors remained level-headed and that those not actively on watch were getting rest so that they could continue the fight when their time came.
In addition, Myers consistently puts the well-being of the crew first, making sure the crew is well-rested and ready for anything that comes next.
As an operations specialist, he mentors and supports the watch standers in combat while they were in the fight.
Myers is a graduate of the Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat course, Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 234, Gray), Chief Petty Officer Continuum Leadership and Development Course, and later studied at Excelsior University.
Myers’ personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (six awards), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (two awards), and various unit and campaign awards. He is also qualified as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, additionally with certifications as a Master Training Specialist and Afloat Training Specialist.
“Supporting this mission is unique to me because I haven’t been involved in real-world live fire events before,” Myers said. “Our crew continues to execute the mission flawlessly, and they have my full trust and confidence in every task presented to them. I believe the same success the crew had thus far will continue throughout the remainder of our deployment.
“When I think of all of my nine previous deployments, I reflect on all the workups that ultimately led to sustainment and self-sufficiency, but nothing compares to this! I’ve been a forward-deployed naval forces sailor and have patrolled near many high-threat areas, but now I am the command master chief on Carney deployed to ensure maritime security and stability in support of Operation Prosperity Guardian with allied maritime power. Carney is ready to complete the mission, as we have shown time and time again through the rigorous workups and training cycles,” Myers added.
The U.S. Navy states Carney’s deployment supports the freedom of navigation, the free flow of commerce, and stability in the Middle East region.
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