U.S. Naval War College's (NWC) Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) held a change of charge ceremony at SEA's auditorium, Nov. 17.

Command Master Chief Delbert M. Terrell, Jr. assumed command of SEA, relieving Command Master Chief Richard G. Curtis, Jr.

During the ceremony, Curtis reflected on his many years of service and shared pieces of advice he received from leaders and shipmates during his time spent on active duty.

Terrell became the 19th director of SEA following a tour as SEA's deputy director.

"I am humbled and honored to accept this new position," said Terrell. "I look forward to continued success of the SEA and working with our team here to educate our senior leaders."

Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, president, NWC, was the distinguished guest and delivered remarks during the ceremony.

"It is a privilege and a great pleasure to be here today to be a part of this change of charge," said Harley. "The Senior Enlisted Academy is an extraordinary institution that prepares our senior enlisted personnel for demanding assignments leading our enlisted cadre, while providing unmatched expertise and mentorship to the other command leadership. Master Chief Petty Officer Curtis superbly led his academy, and implemented significant improvements to the curriculum and the quality of instruction. Master Chief Terrell is a gifted and proven leader who will take the Senior Enlisted Academy to even greater heights."

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Curtis retired after nearly three decades of active duty and transitioned over to the Navy's Fleet Reserves.

NWC's SEA is a part-resident, part-online program dedicated to developing adaptive, ethical leaders and preparing them for greater responsibilities. The SEA program lasts 11 weeks, including a three-week residency in Newport, Rhode Island, a one-week nonacademic period between phases, and seven weeks of facilitated distance learning before arriving on campus. SEA's academic programming provides senior enlisted personnel with a solid understanding of national security strategy, joint force operations, and leadership skills. Coursework focuses on communications, management, ethics, and mission accomplishment in a global environment.

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