MCPON Makes First Visit to Naval Air Station North Island

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Votaw, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(AW/NAC) Mike D. Stevens visited Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) Dec. 14.

This marked Stevens' first visit to NASNI since assuming the role of MCPON earlier this year.

"It is always good to be back at North Island," Stevens said. "In 2000 I got here as a senior chief petty officer stationed on the flight line with one of the helicopter squadrons and at that time all I was worried about was the next deployment and taking care of my guys.

"I never imagined I would ever be back here as MCPON," said Stevens. "I am very happy that I can be here today and can learn what I can do to help you as we all work together to continue to make this the greatest Navy in the world."

MCPON used the visit to discuss topics impacting today's Navy and the Sailors who make it run. He also highlighted his "Zeroing in on Excellence" initiative.

"My initiative provides us with a universal theme we can apply to our respective positions without distracting from or adding to our existing individual roles," said Stevens. "The initiative provides a solid framework around which we can build sound and lasting readiness."

Stevens also highlighted areas such as deployments and uniforms before opening the floor to a question-and-answer session with the Sailors.

Fleet engagements are intended to provide senior leadership with a frontline assessment of Sailors and what they are doing in the fleet.