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The most recent appropriations for the Department of War expired at 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2025. Military personnel will continue in a normal duty status without pay until such time as a continuing resolution or appropriations are passed by Congress and signed into law. Civilian personnel not engaged in excepted activities will be placed in a non-work, non-pay status.
If you have a scheduled appointment or other business at the MTF, please verify with your provider or applicable office within the MTF to ensure there are no changes in schedule. To learn how the lapse in appropriations affects your TRICARE benefit, visit tricare.mil/shutdown.
News | Sept. 18, 2025

Cherry Point Celebrates Promotions to Chief Petty Officer, Honorary Chiefs

By Mr. Thomas Cieslak

MCAS Cherry Point  –   The Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point community gathered Tuesday, September 16, 2025, to honor the service and achievement of Sailors and Marines serving aboard the base as they reached a career milestone.

Seven Sailors advanced to the rank of Chief Petty Officer and two Marines earned the honorary title of Chief Petty Officer during the ceremony held at Miller’s Landing on the base.

Promotion to “Chief” and earning the honorary title is a recognition of exceptional performance in their current duties and potential for continued success in the Navy and Marine Corps.

Sailors promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer were Courtney Austin, Aaron Chacon, Matthew Cutler, Carmello Dixon, Bjarne Dyrdal, Luis Ibarra and Robert Zaruba. 

Marines earning the honorary title of “Chief” were 1st Sgt. Sonlord Jean and Gunnery Sgt. Le’Andrew McCoy.  Marines, whose rank structure differs from the Navy’s, receive the honorary title in recognition of their leadership and alignment with Navy traditions.

While not authorized to wear the Chief Petty Officer’s Anchor outwardly on their uniforms, honorary Chiefs carry the distinction and professional development earned with it.

The Sailors and Marines underwent a period of training and education spanning weeks where they faced and overcame numerous challenges testing their physical fitness and mental resilience.  

Those honored during the ceremony serve in various roles across the base, from providing medical care at the base’s health clinic to leading and mentoring Marines. 
 
News | Sept. 18, 2025

Cherry Point Celebrates Promotions to Chief Petty Officer, Honorary Chiefs

By Mr. Thomas Cieslak

MCAS Cherry Point  –   The Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point community gathered Tuesday, September 16, 2025, to honor the service and achievement of Sailors and Marines serving aboard the base as they reached a career milestone.

Seven Sailors advanced to the rank of Chief Petty Officer and two Marines earned the honorary title of Chief Petty Officer during the ceremony held at Miller’s Landing on the base.

Promotion to “Chief” and earning the honorary title is a recognition of exceptional performance in their current duties and potential for continued success in the Navy and Marine Corps.

Sailors promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer were Courtney Austin, Aaron Chacon, Matthew Cutler, Carmello Dixon, Bjarne Dyrdal, Luis Ibarra and Robert Zaruba. 

Marines earning the honorary title of “Chief” were 1st Sgt. Sonlord Jean and Gunnery Sgt. Le’Andrew McCoy.  Marines, whose rank structure differs from the Navy’s, receive the honorary title in recognition of their leadership and alignment with Navy traditions.

While not authorized to wear the Chief Petty Officer’s Anchor outwardly on their uniforms, honorary Chiefs carry the distinction and professional development earned with it.

The Sailors and Marines underwent a period of training and education spanning weeks where they faced and overcame numerous challenges testing their physical fitness and mental resilience.  

Those honored during the ceremony serve in various roles across the base, from providing medical care at the base’s health clinic to leading and mentoring Marines. 
 
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