Commander Christopher R. Smith is native of Jones, Ml. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1998 as a nuclear Electronics Technician and completed prototype training at MARF at NPTU Ballston Spa, NY. He was commissioned through the Seaman to Admiral- 21 program.
At sea, CDR Smith has served as the Executive Officer aboard USS GEORGIA (GOLD) (SSGN 729), Combat Systems Officer aboard USS Helena (SSN 725), and Tactical Systems Officer/Main Propulsion Assistant aboard USS GEORGIA (GOLD) (SSGN 729). During these tours he deployed to 51\ 6th, and 7th Fleet Areas of Operation.
Ashore, he has served as Branch Head, Naval Personnel Command Officer Performance and Separations (PERS-834), Joint Action Officer, Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR), and Nuclear Trained Officer, Commander Navy Recruiting Command.
CDR Smith earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology from the University of Memphis. His personal awards include Meritorious Service Medal (2 awards), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals (3 awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and multiple unit commendations.