Retired Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Bob Walker, a 1970s-era leader who reshaped enlisted training and introduced the enlisted surface warfare qualification, died Sunday. He was 87.
His death was confirmed by the office of the MCPON.
Walker served as the service's third MCPON, holding the post from 1975 to 1979. He is credited with initiating petty officer indoctrination training for all E-4 selectees, training that is still required to this day. He was also a proponent for more chief training and recommended the creation of what would become the Navy's Senior Enlisted Academy.
Walker also pushed for the silver ESWS pin as a way for enlisted to advance their knowledge and showcase their professionalism along the lines of the gold warfare quals worn by officers.
Walker, a New York native, joined the service in 1948 and became a radarman, serving aboard destroyer escorts William Seiverling and Erben, according to a Tuesday news release from the MCPON's office. Aboard Erben, he deployed in support of the Korean war.
Walker earned his anchors by his eight-year mark and continued to advance, during which time radarman was renamed operations specialist.
"Bob Walker provided sound leadership during difficult times," MCPON Mike Stevens said in the statement. "He advocated for changes to ensure a more professional enlisted force and opened the lines of communication throughout the chain of command."
Walker is survived by his wife Fran of 64 years, five children, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
