Master Chief Samira McBride was the first woman awarded the Master Chief Del Black Leadership award in 2020 for her unwavering dedication to mission success, as well as the resiliency and mentorship given to all Sailors aboard her ship, USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). The award is named for the first master chief petty officer of the Navy, Master Chief Gunner’s Mate Delbert Black. Master Chief McBride is currently assigned to Afloat Training Group Norfolk (2023).

Last Updated: 29 March 2023