Chief Bowles exceptional leadership of the Reactor Controls Division resulted in the completion of over 200-man hours of critical corrective and preventive maintenance tasks which ensured the ship’s operational readiness to execute vital missions critical to national security. Leading a division of eight he sets the standards for every Chief Petty Officer on board FLORIDA. He takes on additional duties while maintaining his division at peak performance levels. His expertise and leadership directly contributed to FLORIDA’s achieving the highest possible grade in casualty response during the recent Operational Reactor Safeguards Examination. He fosters a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth, providing both on-watch and off-watch training. His unwavering commitment to personnel development resulted in ten crew members qualifying for their next watch station. He serves as a mentor to junior crew members in the ship’s office, extending his guidance and support beyond his division. His sailor-first approach, combined with his role as an Engineering Watch Supervisor, and his qualification as Engineering Department Master Chief, led to personalized professional development and improved advanced rates among the crew. The Reactor Control Division under Chief Bowles sets the standards for the ship in achieving Silver Dolphin qualifications.

Chief Bowles is most deserving of recognition by the Naval Submarine League to receive the Chief Paul Golden Saunders Award for Submarine Professional Excellence.