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U.S. Fleet Forces Command Selects New Fleet Master Chief
Story Number: NNS041004-05
Release Date: 10/4/2004 1:43:00 PM
From U.S. Fleet Forces Command Public Affairs
NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Adm. William J. Fallon, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command (FFC), announced the selection of Force Master Chief (AW/SW) Jonathan R. Thompson as the new Fleet Forces Command Fleet Master Chief here Sept. 24.
Thompson, a Sullivan, Ind., native, comes to FFC following a two-year tour as the Force Master Chief at Naval Air Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, also located in Norfolk. He relieves Fleet Master Chief B.L. “Buck” Heffernan Jr., to become FFC’s 12th Fleet Master Chief.
In his new assignment, Thompson becomes the command’s senior enlisted advisor for more than 97,000 active-duty and reserve enlisted personnel who serve on the 150-plus ships and submarines, and the 79 shore activities within FFC’s claimancy.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to serve U.S. Fleet Forces Command," Thompson said. "I look forward to the work ahead, and to visiting the talented men and women who serve our Navy throughout the fleet."
Heffernan, a staunch Sailor’s advocate, said that’s the part of the job he’ll miss most...taking the Navy’s message directly to the troops and addressing their concerns. He currently has the distinction of being the Navy’s “Old Tar,” the active-duty enlisted Sailor with the earliest recorded Enlisted Surface Warfare qualification.
Since commencing his fleet tenure in February 2002, Heffernan has overseen an immense period of change in the Navy’s personnel policies, business practices and mission requirements.
In this climate of change, Heffernan launched a concerted campaign to improve communication with enlisted Sailors, especially those on serving on ships and submarines.
Intent on helping them understand “Big Navy’s” way ahead, Heffernan increased his visits to commands throughout the fleet. He even wrote a weekly column for the Navy’s military newspapers.
“I’ve done my best. I know I’ve made a difference,” Heffernan said. “It’s been challenging to see our Navy and our people through this transition. There’s just so much more I want to do.”
For related news, visit the U.S. Fleet Forces Command Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/clf.
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