CMDCM (SW/AW/IW) Charles S. Parker

Past Command Master Chief, USS Essex (LHD 2)

31 July 2023 Command Master Chief Charles Parker hails from Hilo, Hawaii. He enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard in 1994, as an 11Bravo Infantryman. During his time in the HIARNG, he completed multiple training exercises in Hawaii, Japan and Australia. In 1998, he transferred into U.S. Navy and reported to Recruit Training in Great Lakes, Illinois, and completed PN “A” School at Naval Air Station Meridian, Mississippi. 

His sea assignments include USS KITTYHAWK (CV-63), USS PAUL HAMILTON (DDG60), USS MANCHESTER (LCS14), PATRON FOUR SEVEN, and HELICOPTER MARITIME STRIKE SQUADRON FOUR NINE. In 2007, he deployed to Iraq for 7 months supporting the Army in counter IED and ISR operations at Ali Airbase. Additionally, he served on an Individual Augmentee Tour for 12 months at CJIATF 435 J1 & J3 Kabul Afghanistan supporting detention operations and rule of law. His shore assignments include PACOM J1 Camp Smith HI, Personnel Support Detachment Joint Base Pearl Harbor HI, and Naval Recruiting District San Diego, CA. His Command Master Chief tours were on LCS CREW 206, USS MANCHESTER LCS14, HSM 49 and BEACHMASTER UNIT ONE. Command Master Chief Parker is currently serving as the Command Master Chief onboard the USS ESSEX (LHD-2). 

Command Master Chief Parker is a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 200) and the Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat course (Class 161). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management for the University of Charleston. His personal military awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 Awards), Joint Service Achievement Medal (2 Awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 Awards), Army Achievement Medal, and numerous Unit and Campaign awards.