Naval Service
Naval ServiceCharlie's distinguished career began by being awarded Meritorious Recruit in boot camp followed by completing an extensive seven week course of instruction at Personnelman "A" school in seventeen days. With his early accomplishments he was advised to volunteer for the submarine service.
In December of 1979 following completion of Basic Enlisted Submarine School, he reported to the USS FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (SSBN 675)(GOLD) completing seven strategic deterrent patrols.
In October 1982, he attended Interviewing and Counseling followed by Navy Recruiting Orientation with a follow on assignment to Navy Recruiting District Albuquerque, NM with an ultimate assignment of El Paso, TX.
In 1986 he was assigned to the commissioning crew of the USS TENNESSEE (SSBN 734) where he was advanced to Personnelman First Class and subsequently transferred on temporary additional duty to the USS WILL RODGERS (SSBN 659(BLUE) followed by his ultimate assignment as Personnel Officer on board the USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631)(GOLD). While on board, he qualified and stood watch as Chief of the Watch.
In October of 1990, he transfered to the Staff Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet at Mare Island, California where he served as Personnel Officer, Training Officer, Public Affairs Officer and Limited Duty Coordinator. While at Mare Island he was selected to the rank of Chief and developed a mobile training team concept that saved the Navy $30 million dollars.
In December of 1993 Chief Garza was the initial member assigned to the commissioning crew of the USS GREENEVILLE (SSN 772). During his tour on board Chief Garza coordinated the events and ceremony associated with the GREENEVILLE's commissioning which included direct liaison with the White House, the Officer of the Secretary of the Navy and several members of Congress.
In November of 1996, he reported to the Staff, Commander Submarine Force U.S. Atlantic Fleet, where he served as Force Top Secret Control Officer, NATO/ATOMAL/COSMIC/SIOP Control Officer, Staff Personnel Officer, Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff Force Maintenance and Material Logistics, Force Operations Officer, Force Deputy Material/Environmental/Safety Officer, Public Affairs Assistant and Casualty Assistance Calls Officer.
Chief Garza's military decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (6 Awards), the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Navy Battle Efficiency "E" (two awards), Navy Good Conduct Medal (5 awards), National Defense Medal, Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Sea Service Ribbon (3 awards), Navy Recruiting Ribbon, Expert Rifleman Medal, and Expert Pistol Medal. Additionally, Chief Garza is entitled to wear the Silver Dolphins Breast Insignia and the Strategic Deterrent Patrol Insignia.
