Bruce E. Grooms
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Captain Bruce E. Grooms, USN is the 81st Commandant of Midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy, responsible for the military and professional development of the Brigade of Midshipmen.
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[edit] Education
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Grooms graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering.
He earned a Master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College, graduating with distinction and he attended Stanford University as a National Security Affairs Fellow.
[edit] Career highlights
Following completion of nuclear power training, he served in nearly every capacity aboard a variety of submarines including a tour as Executive Officer of USS Pasadena (SSN 752) where he twice deployed to the Persian Gulf.
His command tours include service as Commanding Officer of USS Asheville (SSN 758) where he completed an extremely successful Western Pacific deployment. During his tour the ship received the Battle Efficiency "E" award, the Golden Anchor and Silver Anchor for the highest retention in the submarine force. USS Asheville twice earned the Engineering Excellence "E" award, won the Fleet Recreational Award for best quality of life programs, and twice won the Submarine Squadron Three Commodore’s Cup as the best all-around submarine in areas not related to battle efficiency. The ship was the Arleigh Burke Award finalist for most improved in battle efficiency, and the Pacific Fleet NEY Memorial Award finalist. Captain Grooms subsequently served as Commander, Submarine Squadron Six where he was responsible for operations and maintenance of five fast attack submarines and a floating dry-dock. Additionally, he provided local oversight for two Guided Missile Submarines (SSGN) undergoing refueling and conversion.
Captain Grooms’ staff assignments include service as a Naval Academy Company Officer, the Senior Inspector on the Atlantic Fleet Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board and service as the Senior Military Aide to the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
He also played varsity basketball for the Midshipman while attending the Naval Academy.
[edit] Awards
Captain Grooms was selected as the Vice Admiral Stockdale Inspirational Leadership Award winner for 1999. He has also been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit (two awards), the Meritorious Service Medal and various campaign and unit awards.
Recognized for the passion he brings to any speech, he has been nominated twice for the title of Naval Academy Motivational Speaker of the Year. Midshipmen are taught to emulate his slow, deliberate style of speech and clear articulation.
