FORCM(IW/SW/AW/FMF) Augustine Cooper, USN
“OLD TAR” DESIGNATION PASSES TO FORCE MASTER CHIEF AUGUSTINE COOPER
National
Feb 5, 2026
The Surface Navy Association’s (SNA) ”Old Tar” designation, honoring the U.S. Navy Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) serving on active duty with the earliest qualification date, has passed to Force Master Chief Augustine Cooper. Cooper is currently assigned as Force Master Chief at the Naval Information Forces.
Cooper is now the 16th individual to receive the Old Tar honor having relieved Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, James Honea, who has recently retired.
Cooper completed his qualification on 9 August 1994.
To watch his complete acceptance speech visit https://youtu.be/QVXUORZDPg0
Old Tar Statue provided to each recipient
January 2026 - from left to right - VADM Ron Boxall, USN (Ret), President, SNA; ADM Jim Kilby, USN, VCNO and current Old Salt, FORCM Augustine Cooper, USN incoming Old Tar and MCPON James Honea, USN (Ret), former Old Tar
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