JACKSONVILLE, Fla. –
After 23 years of service in the U.S. Navy, Fire Controlman Aegis Senior Chief (FCACS) Justin Preyer rose through the ranks, establishing a rewarding career and demonstrating his commitment to supporting the fleet and his fellow military brothers and sisters. He plans to continue on this professional journey as a recently frocked Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO).
In military terms, frocking refers to the command’s authorization to bestow an advanced recognition of a promotion in rank for an individual and grants permission to them to wear the uniform devices displaying the higher level rank.
In order to be considered for a promotion and advance in rank, it requires a rigorous evaluation and approval process conducted by a board panel, which reviews one’s career accomplishments and professional decorum. Over a hundred applicants submit document packages for consideration for the limited next-level positions.
To commemorate his promotion to MCPO, Preyer attended a frocking ceremony on May 25 at Mayport Navy Base in Jacksonville, Florida, where he is currently based. “I am excited and very happy to have received this promotion. It is rewarding after a long career,” stated Preyer. “I am truly honored to continue to do good work for the Navy.”
Preyer received this promotion in recognition of his vast technical knowledge and outstanding leadership for his work in supporting the waterfront’s fleet support mission and Aegis weapons systems installations for fleet operations for all naval ships at Mayport as part of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division’s (NSWCDD) Integrated Combat Systems Department workforce. He also supports weapons systems installations across various domestic and allied warfare centers and military bases.
Serving in the military is a family tradition for Preyer. He followed in his father’s footsteps and set an admirable example for his son, who also serves in the Navy. A Missouri native, he decided to enlist in the Navy after attending two years of college at Central Methodist University. “My family is what inspires me to strive to succeed in my career and life in general, and the military, to me, is life,” said Preyer. “With this promotion, achieving the highest level that I can means that I’ve made my family proud. That’s the driving force for me.”
Throughout his career, Preyer received multiple acclimations and awards in recognition of this exemplary work and accomplishments, including two Navy commendation medals and five Navy achievement medals.
As MCPO, Preyer will continue to serve and support the weapons systems installation programs and provide the best products to the fleet and sailors. “The most important aspect of my job is to ensure that the sailors and fleet have the best-operating equipment so they can do their jobs safely and effectively,” Preyer stated. “I plan to continue performing at the highest level that reflects my commitment and effort to see that it happens.”
The Department of the Navy and NSWCDD Command and senior leadership congratulate MCPO Preyer on his well-deserved promotion.