One Sailor at Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi has been selected for advancement to master chief petty officer (MCPO) by the FY-16 Active-Duty Navy E9 Selection Board and was frocked at morning formation April 30.

Senior Chief Information Systems Technician (Surface) (SW/AW/IDW) Thomas H. Morrill, a Navy drug and alcohol counselor intern, assigned to Behavioral Health, was given authorization to assume the title and wear the uniform of a MCPO.

According to NAVADMIN 105/15 of April 30, 2015, 379 Sailors fleet-wide will don a 2nd star above their anchor.

Strong competition between qualified professionals is one of the strengths of our Navy and Morrill's selection speaks highly of his abilities.

Of his selection his first inclination was to wonder if he was having one of those 'am I awake?' moments.

Then, as he put it, "I was humbled, despite the size of the information systems technician rating, there are less than 100 ITCMs in the Navy."

Morrill was one of 18 selected.

"I'm a product of those that came before me and those I have served with," he said. "To be selected validates the faith and support of my family, my mentors and my shipmates. Finally, relief as these last two years or so have been the most challenging for me personally and professionally in my entire career."

Morrill hails from Lorain, Ohio, and he enlisted in the Navy September 1991. He has been part of the NHCCC team since reporting in September 2013.

For the other chiefs preparing for E-8/9 Morrill has this bit of sage advice.

"Be sure your online information OMPF, PRIMS etc. are up-to-date. Get out of your comfort zone at sea, on shore and in the Mess; make the best of each tour! Train your reliefs, today's junior officer and enlisted Sailors are tomorrows leading chiefs and commanding officers!"

For more news from Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi, visit www.navy.mil/.