CMDCS (SW/AW) Matthew TC Abel

Past SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER, USS PIONEER (MCM-9)

08 February 2022 Senior Chief Petty Officer Abel is a native of Washington D.C. and graduated from Bowie High School in May 2001.  He enlisted in the Navy in May 2002.  Upon completion of recruit training in Great Lakes, IL, he attended MS “A” School in San Antonio, TX.  After graduation he was assigned to the Supply Department aboard USS PONCE (LPD-15) as a Cook-on-Watch in the Enlisted Dining Facility.  While onboard, he deployed twice in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and Operation Infinite Moonlight.

In May 2007, he transferred to Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, where his efforts as Watch Captain led to the base galley receiving the coveted Edward F. Ney Award, and was awarded Senior Sailor of the Year of the largest overseas Naval installation.

In June 2010, he reported to USS NITZE (DDG-94) where he executed duties as the Leading Culinary Specialist while sailing during Joint Warrior and UNITAS exercises.  In August 2011 he was selected for advancement to Chief Petty Officer.  Shortly after promotion to Chief, he was transferred to USS BARRY (DDG-52) as the Leading Culinary Specialist. While aboard, he led a Division of 29 Sailors through a nine month Ballistic Missile Defense deployment to SIXTH Fleet in support of Operation Active Endeavor and Reliant Shield. 

In February 2014, he reported to USS KEARSARGE (LHD-3) where he served as Food Service Division Leading Chief and Production Chief.  He led a joint service team of 183 Sailors and Marines through a seven month combat deployment to FIFTH Fleet in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. He was selected for promotion to Senior Chief Petty Officer in May of 2016.

Shortly after promotion to Senior Chief, he was selected for Flag duty and in December 2016 he transferred to U.S. Naval War College, Newport, RI to serve as Executive Services Leading Culinary Specialist.

In December 2019 Senior Chief Abel was forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan aboard USS BARRY (DDG-52) where he served as Leading Culinary Specialist until his selection into the Command Senior Enlisted Leader program.  He is currently serving onboard USS PIONEER (MCM-9) in Sasebo, Japan as their Command Senior Chief.

Senior Chief Abel’s personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy Achievement Medal (six awards) and multiple unit citations.  Additionally, he is a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy Class 222.