Master Chief Derek W. King Sr. joined the United States Navy in May 2002 and attended basic training at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, Illinois. Upon completion of basic training, he attended Basic Engineering Common Core School at Naval Training Center Great Lakes, Illinois, followed on by Damage Controlman “A" School at Naval Training Center Great Lakes, Illinois.
His first sea tour assignment was aboard USS Simpson (FFG 56), Mayport, FL. In June 2006, he reported to Center for Naval Engineering Learning Site, Ingleside TX, where he earned his Master Training Specialist Qualification. In 2009, he was selected to the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
In 2010, he reported to his second sea tour aboard USS Sterett (DDG 104), San Diego, CA as Repair Division Leading Chief Petty Officer. In 2012, he reported to Navy Operational Support Center, North Island, CA where he was assigned as the Operations and Training Department Leading Chief Petty Officer.
In 2015, Chief Petty Officer King reported to Coastal Riverine Squadron ELEVEN, Seal Beach, CA, where he was assigned as the Maintenance and Material Management System Coordinator (3MC). In 2016, he was selected to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer.
In July 2018, Senior Chief King reported to USS Gridley (DDG 101), where he was assigned as Repair Division Leading Chief Petty Officer. In 2019, he was selected to the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer, and in February 2020, Master Chief King was selected to Command Master Chief. In March 2021, Master Chief King reported to Navy Reserve Center, Ventura County where he was assigned as the Command Master Chief. In December 2022, Master Chief King reported to Fleet Logistics Support Squadron SIX ONE (VR-61) where he was assigned as the Command Master Chief.
In October 2025, Master Chief King reported to Patrol Squadron SIX NINE (VP-69) where he is assigned as the Command Master Chief.
He is a graduate of University of Massachusetts Global earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Studies, Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, and a Doctoral Degree in Organizational Leadership. He is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 211) and U.S. Navy Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat Course (Class 20100).
His personal decorations include Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy Achievement Medal (six awards), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (two awards) and numerous unit and campaign awards.
 

Last Updated: 10 March 2026