Command Master Chief
CMDCM Joel Brandt
A native of Darke County, Ohio, Master Chief Brandt joined the world’s finest Navy on December 7th, 1999. He attended Boot Camp in Great Lakes, Illinois. After graduation, he traveled to Charleston, South Carolina where he attended Nuclear Field A-School, Nuclear Power School, and then completed his training at Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU) onboard the Moored Training Ship 635, SAM RAYBURN.
In August 2001, he reported to the USS RHODE ISLAND (SSBN 740)(GOLD) in King’s Bay, Georgia where he completed his first sea tour and attained the qualification of Engineering Watch Supervisor, served as Machinery Division Leading Petty Officer, and was advanced to First Class Petty Officer.
In November 2006, he reported to his first shore duty assignment at Naval Nuclear Power Training Command where he served as an instructor, staff advisor, and an assistant class director. During this tour, he was promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
In April 2010, he reported to USS MARYLAND (SSBN 738)(GOLD) in King’s Bay, Georgia for his second sea tour as Machinery Division Leading Chief Petty Officer. Upon being selected to Senior Chief in 2012, he transferred to the USS WEST VIRGINIA (SSBN 736)(BLUE) to be the Engineering Department Master Chief. When he reported aboard, the ship was still completing its Engineered Refueling Overhaul which he assisted in returning the ship to an operational status.
In May 2016, he reported to NPTU, Charleston as a staff instructor. During this time, he served as the Materials Leading Chief Petty Officer and later selected to relieve as the Moored Training Ship 626 Command Master Chief, where he served in that capacity for two and a half years.
In February 2020, he was selected to the Command Master Chief Program and in August 2020, reported to Helicopter Marine Strike Squadron 72 at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida.
Some of his key accomplishments were graduation of the Navy’s Senior Enlisted Academy, qualification as a Submarine Specialist and Master Training Specialist, and completion 14 strategic deterrent patrols.
His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and various unit and campaign awards.