CMDCM(EXW/PJ) Master Chief Michael Minotto hails from Albany, New York, and was born into a family with a strong military heritage. His father, retired Gunnery Sergeant Joe Minotto, served honorably for 21 years in the Marine Corps. Following in his father's footsteps, Michael graduated from Glens Falls Senior High School in New York before embarking on a journey of service and education.
Eager to serve his country, Michael enlisted in the Marine Corps and underwent rigorous recruit training at Parris Island, SC, in 1986. As a young Private First Class, he distinguished himself as an infantryman with 2nd Battalion 5th Marines. Notably, Michael's squad excelled in the Marine Corps-wide operational proficiency competition, enduring nine months of rigorous testing under simulated combat conditions. Their exceptional performance earned them the esteemed opportunity to meet the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps at Marine Barracks 8th and I, where they were awarded the prestigious Marine Corps Rifleman's Badge.
Building upon his achievements, Corporal Minotto pursued specialized training as a Scout Sniper at Camp Pendleton, CA, earning the coveted MOS of 8541. He then transferred to 1st Battalion 1st Marines and served with distinction during the first Gulf War as part of H&S Company 1st Battalion 1st Marines, Sniper Platoon. His dedication, skill, and leadership were evident throughout his service, culminating in an honorable discharge in 1994.
Master Chief Minotto continues his pursuit of knowledge and excellence, working towards a Bachelor of Science in Counter Terrorism Studies from Henley Putnam University.
From 2003 to 2006, Master Chief Minotto's journey began with an assignment to MESRON 7 in Guam, where he played a pivotal role as a Plankowner of the unit. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication, he swiftly progressed from Seaman to Petty Officer First Class, assuming the role of Mission Commander. His stellar performance garnered recognition, earning him a Sailor of the Year nomination in 2005.
Transitioning to RIVRON TWO from 2006 to 2010, Master Chief Minotto continued his upward trajectory. As a Plankowner of this esteemed unit, he became a Chief Petty Officer in September 2008. His responsibilities expanded to encompass the Riverine Ground Combat Element OIC and N7 LCPO roles. Notably, he led his team through two combat deployments in Iraq, overseeing a staggering 431 combat missions.
In 2010-2011, Master Chief Minotto assumed the role of PSD LCPO, tasked with escorting Afghan Judges and prosecutors from Kabul to Bagram. His expertise was recognized with temporary duty assignments with SEAL Team 4, conducting vital Force Protection Assessments throughout Southeast Afghanistan before transitioning to NSWG-2.
At NSWG-2 from 2011 to 2014, Master Chief Minotto's leadership prowess shone brightly as he was handpicked for NSWTD2 shortly after his arrival. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in training all NSW support personnel in essential areas such as weapons, convoy operations, and tactical communications. His contributions were pivotal in enhancing force protection for deployed SEAL Teams, culminating in his promotion to Master-at-Arms Senior Chief Petty Officer.
From 2014 to 2015, Master Chief Minotto assumed the role of Operations LCPO at NSF Bahrain, overseeing the largest contingent of NSF in the Navy.
Transitioning to NCIS STAATLANT from 2015 to 2017, his focus shifted to conducting Mobile Training Teams for the Antiterrorism Training Team and supporting the new TRAMAN. Additionally, he conducted critical port and hotel assessments, eventually assuming the role of SEA upon the retirement of the incumbent MACM.
From 2017 to 2020, Master Chief Minotto's expertise was pivotal at CRG1 Det Guam, where he served as the Training and Weapons DLCPO. His team achieved the highest and consecutive ULTRA-S scores within the CRG-1 force with 96% and back to back 98% scores, playing a crucial role in shaping doctrine to align the force's direction and training in reshaping team construct, and outfitting of weapons and gear to address counter boarding operations.
Transitioning to NSA Bethesda from 2020 to 2021, Master Chief Minotto assumed the role of NSF SEA, subsequently being promoted to MACM. His leadership journey continued as he was redistributed to an overseas billet.
From 2021 to 2022, stationed at NSA Souda Bay, Greece, Master Chief Minotto served as the Naval Security Force Senior Enlisted Leader, instrumental in achieving a remarkable 94% on their Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART).
From 2022 to 2025, Master Chief Minotto further solidified his exemplary service and leadership legacy as the Region N3AT Senior Enlisted Leader at our Nation’s capital in Naval District Washington covering six installations, 19 fence lines with a total security force of 1,963 personnel.
From 2024 to Present, Master Chief Minotto further solidified his exemplary service by being assigned to NSA South Potomac as the CMC.
Personal awards include: Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and Navy Commendation Medal (5th Award), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (4th award), Combat Action, Iraqi Campaign with EGA and 2-stars, Afghan Campaign with 1-star. Also earned numerous other unit and personal awards.
Last Updated: 26 June 2024