Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) James Honea will retire on September 12, 2025, concluding a 38-year career, the U.S. Navy announced in a press release on Tuesday.
Honea’s retirement comes a year earlier than originally scheduled.
“It has been a profound privilege and honor to serve as your MCPON,” Honea said. “I will carry with me the memories of meeting Sailors across the Fleet, hearing about your achievements, and the trust you placed in me to advocate for you and your families.”
Enlisting in 1987, Honea began his career as a Boatswain’s Mate aboard the USS John A. Moore (FFG-19). He served at sea on multiple amphibious ships, including USS Juneau (LPD-10), Dubuque (LPD-8), and Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6), and held senior enlisted roles aboard the USS Gridley (DDG-101) and New Orleans (LPD-18).
According to his biography, his shore and command assignments included Navy Reserve Readiness Command in Oklahoma, the U.S. Naval Academy, and leadership roles with U.S. Naval Forces Korea, Central Command, Fifth Fleet, Pacific Fleet, and Indo-Pacific Command.
He became the 16th MCPON in September 2022.
The Navy said that during his tenure, Honea championed initiatives aimed at making Sailors “stronger, smarter, and better valued,” both through direct engagement with service members and strategic advocacy in Washington.
“His collaborative work with Congress and Department of Defense policy makers contributed to significant legislative achievements and quality of life impacts, including a historic 15 percent pay increase for junior enlisted ranks (E-1 to E-4), as well as improvements in unaccompanied housing, medical care, spouse employment, and childcare services,” the Navy notes.
During his Navy career, Honea earned numerous honors, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, two Legions of Merit, five Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, along with various unit and campaign awards.
The Navy has not yet named Honea’s successor.
