CMDCM(SW/AW) Benito Encinias

Past Command Master Chief, USS Chafee (DDG 90)

15 May 2019 Master Chief Benito Encinias is currently serving as USS CHAFEE (DDG-90) Command Master Chief in Pearl Harbor, HI.  He is a native of Alamosa, CO, joining the Navy in September 1997 he attended basic training in Great Lakes, Illinois followed by Seaman Apprentice Training in Great Lakes, Illinois.  Following his entry level training he reported to his first ship USS Oakhill (LSD 51) Virginia Beach, VA as an undesignated Seaman. 
 
His sea duty assignments also include:  USS BATAAN (LHD 5), USS VELLA GULF (CG 72), USNS MERCY (T-AH 19) and LCS Crew 204 where he was a plank owner of USS CORONADO (LCS 4).  Ashore he was assigned to Navy Cargo Handling Battalion ONE (NCHB 1) and United States Naval Academy where he served as a craftmaster of YP 684. 
 
In 2015, he was selected as a Command Senior Chief, graduating from the Senior Enlisted Academy Class 199 and CMC/COB course 163.  

Master Chief Encinias personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (eight awards), Army Achievement Medal and various unit and campaign awards.