CMDCM Robert C. Schmugge

COMMAND MASTER CHIEF, USS GRIDLEY (DDG 101)

05 July 2023

Master Chief Schmugge, a native of Rush City, Minnesota, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in September 2000. Following completion of basic training at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, Illinois, he completed the Naval Nuclear Power Training pipeline as a Nuclear Machinist’s Mate before reporting to his ultimate duty station.

In May 2002, he reported onboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) in Norfolk Virginia where he served in Reactor Department. He earned his Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist qualification, and was promoted to Petty Officer First Class.

In March 2008, he reported as an instructor to the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston South Carolina and was selected to Chief Petty Officer upon reporting. During his successful tour, he earned his Master Training Specialist while serving as a Basic Machinery instructor, Mechanical Equipment Senior Instructor and Command Indoctrination Coordinator.

In September 2011, he reported onboard USS JOHN C STENNIS (CVN 74), where he served as the Reactor Mechanical One Plant LCPO, Reactor Mechanical Division LCPO, Propulsion Plant Drill Team Coordinator, and Reactor Training DIVO. During his tour he deployed three times and was selected for Senior Chief Petty Officer.

In January 2017, he reported to Commander Naval Air Forces Pacific, Bremerton, WA where he was selected for Master Chief, completed the Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 225 Khaki), and served as Force Nuclear Propulsion Mechanic.

In August 2019, he reported onboard USS NIMITZ (CVN 68) as the Reactor Department Master Chief where he completed one deployment before he was selected for Command Master Chief. Following this tour, he graduated from the Command Master Chief Course and reported to USS GRIDLEY (DDG 101) in November 2022.

Master Chief Schmugge’s personal awards include Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medal (four Awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and other various unit and service awards.