Command Master Chief
CMDCM(SS) Joseph J. Willamson
Master Chief Williamson, a native of Chicago, Illinois, enlisted in the United States Navy in June 2002. Following the completion of basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois, he reported to Basic Enlisted Submarine School (BESS) in Groton, Connecticut, followed by Machinist Mate “A” School and then Machinist Mate “C” School in Bangor, Washington.
Williamson reported to USS Buffalo (SSN 715) in June of 2003, after completing his initial training. In June 2006, he reported to USS Olympia (SSN 717). In April 2009, he reported to USS Texas (SSN 775) while serving in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, for all three tours. In April 2012, he reported to Navy Recruiting District Atlanta, where he was advanced to Chief Petty Officer and served as Navy Recruiting Station Warner Robins Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO). In May 2015, he reported to USS Indiana (SSN 789) in Newport News, Virginia, where he served as the Auxiliary Division LCPO until December 2018. Also, he served as the Damage Control Assistant at Commander, Submarine Squadron 7, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
Williamson served as the Chief of the Boat on USS New Mexico (SSN 779) from October 2021 to February 2024, where he was selected to the Command Master Chief program. He then served at Submarine Force Atlantic as the Norfolk Submarine Enlisted Leadership Development Manager for 16 submarines and six shore duty installations supporting over 3,000 Sailors.
As of January 2025, he serves as the Command Master Chief for Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34.
Williamson’s academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Charleston, West Virginia. Additionally, he is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy Class 221 and the Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat course.
His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (eleven awards), and various campaign, service, and unit awards.