Third Fleet CMC Meets with Nimitz CPO 365 Class

USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- First Class Petty Officers aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) enjoyed an exclusive audience with Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Command Master Chief, CMDCM Terrence Molidor, April 10 during the ship's CPO 365 course.

Molidor arrived aboard Nimitz April 9 with Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Vice Adm. Gerald R. Beaman during a visit to the underway carrier.

"I've heard a lot of great things here today," Molidor told the group. "Take everything you learn here on board - take pride in your ship." During the class Molidor shared with the group examples of leadership he encountered over the course of his career.

"It was great to hear from him," Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class (AW/SW) Philipe Lilavois. "That he took the time to meet with us reinforces the idea that this program really is important - that 'Big-Navy' truly cares about our development as leaders." The level of involvement from First Classes across the deckplates is what makes this program successful, the Miami, Fla., native added.

"This program is great because it gives us a chance to reflect and gain some wisdom from those with experience," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW) Isreal Thompson-Filip from Dallas. "Getting to meet and hear from the Third Fleet CMC definitely gives us drive and support for the program," she added.

"It was great that he took the time to talk to the Sailors," said Logistics Specialist 1st Class (AW/SW) Juma Redwood. The East Orange, N.J., native explained the program benefits tomorrow's leaders. "It's a good process to allow us to get together as leaders today to be able to train and develop our leaders of tomorrow. There were a lot of good take-aways from this class today."

Nimitz departed Naval Air Station North Island April 3 after picking up Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 to participate in a scheduled Sustainment Exercise (SUSTEX) in preparation for its upcoming deployment.