Capt. Clifford Collins Jr., a native of Port Arthur, Texas, enlisted in the U.S. Navy June 1987 and later earned a commission through the Limited Duty Officer program. He graduated from Park University in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Management.

While serving as an enlisted Sailor, he completed three assignments in Japan, at Naval Air Facility, Atsugi; aboard USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), Yokosuka; and with Commander, Amphibious Group 1, Okinawa. He also was assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14, Naval Air Station North Island, California, and Training Squadron (VT) 31, Corpus Christi, Texas. He was selected for yeoman chief in 1996.

At sea as a commissioned officer, he served as administration officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, Atsugi, Japan; administration officer aboard USS Nassau (LHA 4), Norfolk, Virginia; and flag secretary for Commander, Carrier Strike Group 5, Yokosuka, Japan.

His shore tours include service with Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (N3N5) as a joint action control officer; Military Sealift Command as director, military personnel and security; U.S. Pacific Fleet as flag secretary and commanding officer staff enlisted; White House Military Office as director of administration; Chief of Naval Operations as flag secretary;  chief of staff, Chief of Naval Personnel; chief of staff and commanding officer of the flag unit, Naval Education and Training Command (NETC); and deputy director, 21st Century Sailor Office.  

Collins returned to NETC as chief of staff and commanding officer of the flag unit in August 2022.

His personal awards include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (six awards).

Last Updated: 16 October 2023