Command Master Chief Christopher Cline, a native of Kansas City, Missouri, graduated from Van Horn High School in 1992 and immediately entered the U.S. Navy. He reported for basic training at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, Illinois, on Dec. 7, 1992, and then completed airman apprenticeship training. Cline later earned an Associate and Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He is a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 157 Gold) and the 116th Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat Course. He is designated a specialist in aviation and surface warfare.
Cline’s early assignments include a tour with Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 131, in Whidbey Island, Washington, and aboard USS Constellation (CV 64) as an aviation storekeeper. After changing his rating in 1997 to air traffic controller, he was assigned to Naval Air Station Whiting Field, in Milton, Florida, as a facility watch supervisor and then aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), deploying to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
In 2002, he became a Navy career counselor, serving with Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115 in Atsugi, Japan, aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63); aboard USS Dubuque (LPD 8), San Diego, California; and Navy Recruiting District St. Louis as a zone supervisor for the Kansas City, Missouri metropolitan area. After volunteering for a global support assignment to Naval Forward Headquarters Afghanistan, Cline served aboard USS Essex (LHD 2) in Sasebo, Japan, and after a crew hull swap, aboard USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), as deck department leading chief petty officer.
Following selection for the Command Senior Chief program, he served with Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Crew 201 and then as command master chief aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42).
He is currently serving as the command master chief for Training Support Center San Diego.
Cline’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (one award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (four awards).
Last Updated: 21 December 2020