JOHN WALTER CLINE
Ensign, U.S. NAVY

A native a Frederick, Maryland, Ensign Cline enlisted in the Navy in June,1988 just weeks after graduating from Middletown High School. After completion of Musician "A" School at The Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, Virginia, he was assigned as a trombone instrumentalist with Navy Band Memphis, Tennessee. Later, he transferred to Navy Band Great Lakes, Illinois, where he served as Leader of the Brass Quintet, Public Affairs Coordinator, and Drum Major. He was selected in 1994 as the Naval Training Center (Simplex) Sailor of the Year. His next assignment was with the U.S. Atlantic Fleet Band in Norfolk, Virginia, where he served as Drum Major, Leading Petty Officer, Fiscal/Supply Petty Officer, Leader of the Brass Quintet, and member of the 1996 U.S. Navy Showband in support of WATC-96 and UNITAS-37, touring nations of Africa and South America. He was selected as that organization's Sailor of the Year for 1997 and 1998. Ensign Cline is also a graduate of the School of Music's Section Leader's Course, Ceremonial Conductor and Drum Major's Course, and Assistant Director's Course. Receiving his commission in May 2001, Ensign Cline reported for duty as Assistant Director of the United States Naval Academy Band in June 2001.

His awards include the Navy Achievement Medal (five awards), Meritorious Unit Citation, Good Conduct Award (three awards), National Defense Medal, Sea Service Ribbon, and Navy Pistol Sharpshooter Ribbon.

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