Command Master Chief Branden Wilkins hails from Los Angeles, CA.  He graduated from Temecula Valley High School in 2002.  He would enlist in the Navy as a Damage Controlman and enter basic training in April of 2005. Master Chief Wilkins holds a Bachelors of Science Degree from Excelsior College in 2021.
 
His sea duty assignments include USS Juneau (LPD 10) as Work Center Supervisor, USS Chosin (CG 65) as Leading Petty Officer, USS Rushmore (LSD 47) as Leading Chief Petty Officer, and USS Manchester Blue Crew as the Command Senior Chief. Deployments include service in the COMTHIRDFLT, COMFIFTHFLT and COMSEVENTHFLT area of responsibility.
 
Master Chief Wilkins shore tours include Navy Operational Support Center Las Vegas as the Training Department Leading Petty Officer and Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific as the Mobility Damage Control DLCPO and Senior Enlisted Leader. He is a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy (Purple Group, Class 238), and CMC/COB course.
 
In May 2023, Master Chief Wilkins reported to his current assignment VFA-151 “Vigilantes” as the Command Master Chief.
 
Master Chief Wilkins personal awards includes Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (7 awards), Navy Good Conduct Medals (6 awards), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal as well as various unit awards, campaign and service decorations.  He is qualified as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, Master Training Specialist, and Afloat Training Specialist.

Last Updated: 13 June 2023