Josephine Tauoa has made history in the United States Navy by becoming the first Samoan to achieve the rank of Command Master Chief, inspiring many along the way. Her remarkable achievement is being celebrated in her home territory of American Samoa, where she is currently visiting as part of the Navy’s Executive Engagement Visit program. This initiative aims to connect senior Navy leaders with their hometown communities to discuss career paths, opportunities within the Navy, and engage with community and local leaders while also increasing the Navy’s visibility, according to a report by Asi Andrew Fa’asau of Samoa News.
During her visit, Command Master Chief Tauoa actively participates in recruitment-focused activities, working closely with Navy Talent and Acquisition Group Pacific. Her efforts are part of a broader strategy to motivate and recruit the next generation of Navy personnel.
On a significant occasion, she shared her remarkable journey of determination and resilience at a special Athletes Dinner organized by the American Samoa National Olympics Committee. This event brought together sports officials, athletes, and their families, offering Tauoa a platform to share her wisdom and offer encouragement.
Tauoa emphasized the importance of accountability, a sense of belonging, and commitment in achieving goals, whether in the military, sports, or life in general. She believes these principles have been fundamental in her rise through the ranks in the Navy, and they hold value for anyone pursuing ambitious goals.
Born in the village of Faga’itua and an alumna of Faga’itua High School, Tauoa enlisted in the Navy immediately after graduating in 1996. Over her 27-year career, as reported by Samoa News, she has served on several surface ships and currently holds the prestigious position of Command Master Chief for the Pacific Fleet Commander in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Her journey, marked by challenges, including navigating a male-dominated field, showcases her perseverance and dedication to her role and paving the way for future generations of Samoan women in the Navy.
Tauoa’s visit not only spotlights her own achievements but also supports recruitment efforts in American Samoa, working alongside local Navy recruiter Nofo Alesana. Alesana, dedicated to recruiting more females from the territory, underscores the Navy’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion.
In 2021, Command Master Chief Josephine Tauoa served as the third-in-command on the USS Chung-Hoon, a destroyer in the U.S. Navy’s powerful fleet, based in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Command Master Chief Josephine Tauoa’s career advancement has now positioned her in a crucial role as the Command Master Chief for the Pacific Fleet Commander in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.