CMDCM Eric F. Ralston
Command Master Chief, USS Vella Gulf (CG 72)
10 May 2021
CMDCM Eric F. Ralston began his naval career in June of 1995, when he attended U.S. Navy basic training in Great Lakes, IL.
Upon completing Hospital Corpsman “A” school in San Diego, and Field Medical Service School in Camp Johnson, North Carolina, he reported to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where he served from March of 1996 until March 1999, when he transferred to Branch Medical Clinic Ingleside, TX for two years.
From March 2001 to October 2002, Master Chief attended the Department of Defense Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET) Repair school in Wichita Falls TX, graduating at the top of his class. He transferred to Naval Hospital Pensacola, FL where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In December of 2005 he transferred to the USS Frank Cable (AS 40), and in November of 2008, he returned to the DoD BMET School for instructor duty, and in May of 2010 became the Navy program director for the course.
In March 2011, CMDCM archived his NEC to expand his leadership opportunities and reported to the USS Ponce (LPD 15) as the medical/dental department leading chief petty officer, until the ship’s conversion to AFSB(I) 15 in March of 2012.
After which, he served as the Senior Enlisted Leader onboard Fleet Surgical Team FOUR for two years, followed by three years aboard Naval Branch Health Clinic, Parris Island, SC as the Senior Enlisted Leader. In February of 2017 he was accepted into the Command Senior Enlisted Leader program subsequently reporting to Milwaukee MEPS as the Senior Enlisted Advisor, where he was selected for advancement to Master Chief Petty Officer (CMDCM). He reported to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26 as the Command Master Chief in July of 2018.
Master Chief Ralston’s academic achievements include an associate’s degree in Biomedical Equipment Repair, and an Instructor of Military and Technical Sciences Associates Degree. He is currently pursuing his bachelor of Science in Business Management.
CMDCM Ralston reported to reported to his current assignment as the CMC of USS VELLA GULF on 20 March 2021.
His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (seven awards), Master Training Specialist, and various unit, and campaign and service awards.