Charleston native, Master Chief Petty Officer Jerome Tellis retired recently after 31 years of service to his country in the U.S. Navy.
Tellis, the son of Vernell (Tellis) Wright and Clinton Taylor, both of Charleston, credits his parents with “instilling in me the values of hard work and dedication.”
Upon his retirement, Tellis received a letter from President Joe Biden which notes, in part, “I offer my heartfelt congratulations and the nation’s appreciation on the occasion of your retirement from the United States Navy after 31 years of service.
“You answered the call to serve and have ensured American freedoms remain steadfast and true. Your service in the United States Armed Forces is the embodiment of America’s patriotism — undaunted and resolute,” the letter on White House stationery continues. “You represent the best of who we are, and we can never fully repay you for the countless sacrifices you made while serving. You leave a lasting legacy of courage and commitment to our nation, inspiring future generations to follow in your heroic footsteps.”
After graduating from Coffeeville High School, Tellis enlisted in the Navy on July 7, 1993.
“As a Machinist’s Mate, I took on the vital responsibility of operating, maintaining and repairing intricate ship machinery systems, including propulsion systems, engines and boilers. My role was essential in ensuring the smooth operation and reliability of Navy ships, contributing to a mission greater than myself.”
Tellis was stationed on several ships during his career, including the USS Peleliu, an amphibious assault vessel, and the aircraft carriers USS Constellation, USS Nimitz and USS Carl Vinson, along with Commander Amphibious Group Three.
“My shore tours were equally impactful, allowing me to serve at the Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity and at the Southwest Regional Maintenance Center in San Diego, the Navy Personnel Command, and the Commander Naval Air Forces Pacific Fleet, where I led as the Reliability Centered Maintenance Inspector and trainer,” Tellis noted.
He received numerous awards and citations:
• Good Conduct Medal (10 times)
• Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (1)
• Humanitarian Service Medal
• Meritorious Service Medal
• Meritorious Unit Commendation (5 times)
• Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2)
• Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (5)
• Navy “E” Ribbon (2)
• Navy Unit Commendation (2)
• Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (10)
• National Defense Service Medal (1)
• Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (1)
• Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (2)
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (1)
• Navy Expeditionary Medal (1)
• Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist (1)
Tellis retired in Millington, Tennessee, and now resides in Elm Grove, Louisiana, with his wife of 28 years, Angela Tellis, who is originally from San Diego, California.
“Together, we exemplify the spirit of resilience and commitment to service,” Jerome Tellis said.
