Master Chief Richard J. Berndt, a native of Holly, Colorado, entered the U.S. Navy in July 1991. Following completion of basic training at Recruit Training Command Orlando, Florida, he reported to Naval Air Technical Training Center, Millington, Tennessee, completing Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AD) “A” School. He is designated a specialist in aviation warfare.

Berndt’s operational assignments include a tour with the “Screwtops” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123, where he completed multiple detachments and one Mediterranean deployment; Patrol Squadron (VP) 8; Bureau of Personnel Sea Duty Component (BUPERS SDC), where he qualified safe-for-flight, completing multiple maintenance detachments over four years; BUPERS SDC, Point Mugu, California as the maintenance department leading chief petty officer and then assistant officer in charge and senior enlisted leader; and Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ) 4 as the maintenance master chief, with “the Shadows” earning two maintenance excellence awards and two Battle “E” awards.

His shore tours include Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department, Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland; Naval Air Technical Training Center, Pensacola, Florida as an “A” school instructor, qualifying as a Master Training Specialist and instructor evaluator and helping implement the STAR-21 “A” school program; and Navy Personnel Command, Millington, Tennessee as the lead detailer for the AD rating.

Berndt reported to his current assignment as the chief petty officer in charge at Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Det. Tinker in 2017.

His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various campaign and unit awards.

Last Updated: 16 June 2022