Command Master Chief (SW) Pedro C. Gines, of the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 concluded his 26-year Navy career during a retirement ceremony held at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, Aug. 19.

Gines was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal by Cmdr. Doug Gray, commanding officer of the Eagles, in recognition of his outstanding performance at VFA-115.

Gray praised Gines for his thoughtful leadership and diligent devotion to duty during his remarks at the ceremony, "You did an amazing job taking care of our Sailors and families. You always put them first in everything you did. Everyone you have come in contact with is a better person because of what you do and, more importantly, how you do it."

Guest speaker, Master Chief Aircraft Maintenanceman (AW) Donald Andrews, VFA-115 maintenance master chief, shared personal stories to illustrate Gines' compassionate leadership style.

"You can be a kind-hearted person who genuinely cares about people and be successful in the Navy," said Andrews. "He's proven that."

Gines opened his farewell speech by describing the competition he faced in gaining his initial enlistment at Naval Station Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines in 1990.

"It was just like yesterday when I was elbowing with about 1,000 other aspirants to join the U.S. Navy in front of the gates of Subic Bay," said Gines. "Only about 400 would ultimately get through the first screening, 50 would get through the second screening and only 20 would get the chance to join the U.S. Navy. I was one of the 20 and that started my Navy career."

Gines credited his success in the following years to fellow Sailors, chiefs and mentors that assisted and inspired him throughout his career. He also thanked his family for their sacrifices during his many years operating at sea and wished the personnel of VFA-115 well in their future endeavors.

Gines' extensive naval service included tours aboard USS Harry W. Hill (DD 986), USS Hewitt (DD 966), Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, USS Oldendorf (DD 972), USS Fletcher (DD 992), USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Devastator (MCM 6), USS Scout (MCM 8), USS Champion (MCM 4) and USS Sentry (MCM 3).

Additionally, Gines served as command master chief of Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach prior to completing his final tour of service with VFA-115.

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