Col Usmc Eric J. Keith (Chewy)

Eric J. "Chewy" Keith, Col USMC has a diverse and extensive work experience spanning several prestigious organizations. Eric J. "Chewy" currently serves as an Adjunct Instructor at Davis Defense Group, Inc. Since 2023. Prior to this, they held various leadership positions at Marine Corps University, including Director of the Lejeune Leadership Institute from 2022 and Director of the College of Enlisted Military Education from 2021 to 2022.

Before joining Marine Corps University, Col Keith was a Resident Student at The United States Army War College from 2020 to 2021. Eric J. "Chewy" also served as the Executive Officer of the United States Marine Corps, Marine Aircraft Group 26 "The Flying Diamonds" from 2019 to 2020.

Col Keith's notable command experience includes serving as the Commanding Officer of United States Marine Corps, VMM-264 "Black Knights" from 2017 to 2019 and as the Executive Officer of United States Marine Corps, VMM-363 "Red Lions" from 2015 to 2017. Additionally, they held various important roles at United States Marine Corps, Marine Aviation Weapons & Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), such as Academics Department Head, MV-22 MAWTS Instructor, Squadron Weapons and Tactics Officer, and Assistant Operations Officer, among others.

Col Keith began their career in the United States Marine Corps as a Student at The Basic School in 1999, followed by various roles including Student Naval Aviator and CH-46E "Phrog" Student Pilot. Eric J. "Chewy" holds a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the military and aviation fields.

Eric J. "Chewy" Keith, Col USMC has a diverse education history. Eric J. "Chewy" started their academic journey at Thomas Jefferson High School, where they obtained a High School Diploma in 1995. Eric J. "Chewy" then proceeded to Virginia Tech, where they pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Psychology from 1995 to 1999, with a minor in Leadership Studies.

In 2000 and 2001, Keith attended the Naval Air Training Command, where they earned the prestigious "Naval Aviator 'Wings of Gold'" designation. During their time at the training command, they studied T-34, TH-57B, and TH-57C aircrafts.

Keith continued their educational pursuits by enrolling in the USMC Command and Staff College in 2010. Although the degree name is not specified, it can be inferred that they received further education in areas such as Leadership, Warfighting, War Studies, and Security Studies.

In 2017, Keith sought a Master of Arts (MA) degree in National Security Terrorism Studies from the American Military University. This program aided him in developing expertise in the field of national security and counterterrorism.

Most recently, from 2020 to 2021, Keith attended The United States Army War College, where they pursued a Master of Arts degree in Strategic Studies. This educational experience likely enhanced their understanding of strategic planning and military operations.

In addition to their academic achievements, Keith has obtained several certifications. Eric J. "Chewy" became a Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) through the U.S. Marine Corps Weapons School (MAWTS-1) in April 2008. Eric J. "Chewy" also earned the Night Systems Instructor (NSI) designation for both MV-22 and CH-46 aircrafts from the same institution. Moreover, Keith holds a Commercial Pilot License, an Instrument Rating, and a Military Instrument Instructor Pilot designation. Eric J. "Chewy" has also acquired a Powered Lift Rating from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Overall, Eric J. "Chewy" Keith has demonstrated a strong commitment to education and continuous learning throughout their career in the United States Marine Corps. Eric J. "Chewy" has pursued diverse areas of study, earning degrees and certifications that have contributed to their expertise and professional success.