Command Master Chief Benjamin Cruz

Command Master Chief, USS Carter Hall (LSD 50)

27 July 2023

Master Chief Benjamin Cruz, a native of Chicago, Illinois, enlisted in the United States Navy in December of 2000.  Following completion of basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois he reported to Naval Training Center Great Lakes where he completed Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) “A” School training. 

Upon graduation, he reported for duty onboard the USS SAMUEL ELLIOT MORRISON (FFG 13) homeported in Mayport, Florida and designated as an Engineering Department Maintenance Man.  His fleet assignments include the USS ESTOCIN (FFG 15), USS OBANNON (DD 987), USS FARRAGUT (DDG 99), Training School Command Great Lakes Illinois, USS GETTYSBURG (CG 64), and USS DEVASTATOR (MCM 6).

Master Chief Cruz most recently served as the Command Master Chief for the amazing “Salty Dogs” test squadron VX-23 Naval Test Wing Atlantic Patuxent River, Maryland. Additionally, Master Chief Cruz is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy Class 201 and has earned his Enlisted Aviation, Surface Warfare, and Master Training Specialist designations.  

His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (11 awards), and various unit and campaign awards.