CMDCM (SW/AW) John J. Lanza

Past Command Master Chief, USS Howard (DDG 83)

05 June 2018 Master Chief Lanza graduated from Whittier Union High School in 1995. He completed his Associate’s Degree in Supervision and Management from Coastline Community College in March 2011. He hails from Whittier, California.

In December 1995, Master Chief Lanza joined the Navy and completed Recruit Basic Training, Engineering Common Core, Electrical Core, and subsequently attended Electrician’s Mate (EM) “A” school in Great Lakes, Illinois.

He reported to USS SHILOH (CG-67) in January 1997, were he served as a maintenance man in the Electrical Division of the Engineering Department. While on board he qualified as Engineering Officer of the Watch, Repair Locker Officer, and was selected as the 2002 Sailor of the Year.

His follow-on tours include Navy Recruiting District San Diego where he was advanced to Chief Petty Officer; USS COMSTOCK (LSD-45) where he served as Engineering Department Leading Chief Petty Officer and was advanced to Senior Chief Petty Officer; Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific where he served as an OMMS NG Analyst; and USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN (CG-57) where he served as the Maintenance and Material Management Coordinator. He was advanced to Master Chief Petty Officer in May of 2013. He was selected into the Command Master Chief program and completed his first command tour and follow-on tour at VAW 112 and VAW 116.

In June 2018, Master Chief Lanza reported to USS HOWARD (DDG 83) to serve as their Command Master Chief.

Master Chief Lanza’s Awards include Meritorious Service Medal (two), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals (five), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals (four), Flag Letters of Commendation (three), five Good Conducts Medals, and various campaign medals and unit awards.

​