Sailors from various commands at Naval Support Activity Mid-South donned khaki uniforms, combination covers, and fouled anchor collar devices for the first time during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony.
The chiefs' pinning ceremony is a tradition unique to the Navy and dates back to the foundation of the chief petty officer rank created in 1893. The ceremony signifies a new position of increased leadership and responsibility.
“Chief selects, I know you have been waiting for those anchors for a long time, longer than just the six weeks since command notifications were made," said Capt. Al Ross, commanding officer, NSA Mid-South. “I look forward to seeing you continue to grow as part of the NSA Mid-South chief petty officer mess. Thank you for your hard work over the past few weeks, and the work you will do now that you are a chief.
Families of the 45 new chiefs had the opportunity to place the gold fouled anchors on their Sailor’s collars during the ceremony, while each chief’s sponsor placed the khaki combination cover on them for the first time.
“I am so thankful my wife could be here for one of the greatest moments of my military career,” said Chief Yeoman David Honadle. “I wouldn’t be wearing anchors today if it weren’t for her tremendous support over the years.”
Master Chief Aerographer’s Mate James Green was the guest speaker at the event and spoke to the selectees about the new responsibility and dedication to the Navy that each are now charged with as both leaders and advisors.
The 45 Sailors advanced during the final stage Chief Initiation. The transition from the rank E6 to E7 is especially important in the Navy compared to other military branches as the service members make the life-changing transition from petty officer to chief.
"Initiation remains the backbone of building the continued legacy that is our Chiefs’ Mess," said Command Master Chief Mia Strader, NSA Mid-South. "But these Chief Selectees began their training years ago and they were selected because they are already leaders who have dedicated themselves to developing Sailors and taking on every challenge put in front of them. Initiation builds on the strengths, which they have consistently demonstrated throughout their careers and further hone those that they may have yet to fully define. They have grown personally and professionally before our eyes. The road ahead will be long and their work will be hard. But in the end, make no mistake, they will be The Chief.”
NSA Mid-South is the human resources center of excellence for the Navy; home to Navy Personnel Command, Navy Recruiting Command, Navy Manpower Analysis Center and other development commands including the 21st Century Sailor Command and My Navy Career Center.