Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC) Texas bid fair winds and following seas to Cryptologic Technician (Networks) Master Chief Shane Bartholomew, National Security Agency (NSA) Texas Senior Enlisted Leader, during a retirement ceremony at Wilford Hall March 22.

Bartholomew, a New Orleans native, retired from the U.S. Navy after 25 years of service.

“In the awards presented to Master Chief (Bartholomew) today, you will hear about all the great achievements he’s contributed to the mission during his time in service,” said Air Force Col. Gregory J. Gagnon, commander, National Security Agency/Central Security Service (NSA/CSS) Texas. “But, I believe its notable how big of an impact he’s made and the legacy he’s leaving behind. It was a daily occurrence for junior officers, his fellow chiefs and even senior government officials to seek him out for advice and guidance. He has mastered the ability to affect people on all levels, which is a rare but valuable leadership trait.”

Bartholomew was both praised and roasted for contribution to the mission, the guidance and development of service members and staff, and his style of reprimand.

“Master Chief has a situational style of leadership,” said Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Interpretive) Julie Pierre-Louis, departmental leading chief petty officer. “He communicates with the work force on all levels regardless of paygrade or status. He also has the ability to move effortlessly from one leadership style to another and gain people’s confidence.  I've also watch him provide candid feedback in a way that builds confidence and helps people achieve success.”

Bartholomew, who joined the Navy at age 17, reflected on how he had to change his way of thinking to succeed in the Navy.

“With me joining the Navy at 17, I thought I knew everything and had a real tough time adapting at first,” said Bartholomew. “I didn’t understand that my 1st class and my chief were charged with the responsibility of helping me in my life and my career, and it wasn’t until I got out of my way that I began to see success.”

Bartholomew attributed his growth and development during his two and a half decades of service to the unwavering support of his wife, the life lessons passed down by his mother, and learning from every person he’s come in contact with along the way.

“My wife and kids mean everything to me,” said Bartholomew. “They are the nucleus to my success, and we keep each other centered. My mother has been the primary mentor in my life. She has taught me the importance of adapting and understanding my environment as it changes. I’ve made sure to learn something from every person I’ve come in contact with because I truly believe that everyone has some knowledge to offer.”

Bartholomew attributes his success in various aspects of personal life to his life in the Navy.

“I believe the Navy has helped me to define my ethos and in becoming a man,” said Bartholomew. “The Navy put me in the right place to find my wife, and together we have created this wonderful family with an unbreakable bond. Without God and the Navy, I wouldn’t be here now, and I am truly grateful.”

Following his retirement, Bartholomew will stay in the San Antonio area with his wife, children and grandchildren.

NIOC Texas conducts information operations and provides cryptologic and related capability to the fleet, joint and national commanders, as well as administrative and personnel support to Department of the Navy members assigned to the San Antonio area. NIOC Texas is a subordinate command of U.S. Fleet Cyber Command and comprises Task Force 1040 of the U.S. 10th Fleet.