Command Master Chief Johannes J. Gonzalez, a native of Panama, Republic of Panama, immigrated to the United States at the age of 16 and realized his dream of joining the U. S. military after obtaining his permanent resident status. 
 
Gonzalez reported to Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois, in 1995 and began his career as a fireman recruit.  After graduating basic training, he attended Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) "A" School, then later converted to the navy counselor rating.  Gonzalez became a United States naturalized citizen through his military service in 1998.  He was selected for the Command Senior Chief Program in 2009 and for command master chief in 2012.
 
At sea, he served aboard USS Kidd (DDG 993), USS Donald Cook (DDG 75), USS Vincennes (CG 49), USS Lake Erie (CG 70), and USS Reuben James (FFG 57).
 
His shore tours include Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station, Pacific; U.S. Naval Forces Japan; Naval Base Guam; U.S. 4th Fleet; and U.S. 6th Fleet. 
 
Gonzalez is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 142/Khaki), Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat Course (Class 83), the National Defense University Keystone Joint Command Senior Enlisted Course, and the Naval Postgraduate School Navy Senior Leader Seminar.
 
He has served on teams that have been recognized with numerous awards.  His most precious ones are the Battle Effectiveness (Battle “E”) Awards earned with teammates while at sea.
 
Gonzalez assumed the duties as the Naval Leadership and Ethics Center command master chief in August 2021.

Last Updated: 10 November 2021