Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

San Diego, CA — Two Sailors from the crew of USS Green Bay were promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer (CPO) on Thursday, September 16, in a ceremony held on the ship’s flight deck. This is the date used annually by commands across the world to frock their new CPOs.

The two Sailors, Chief Damage Controlman John Parks and Chief Engineman Kelly McKenna, wore their new khaki uniforms for the first time as their anchors were pinned on. Command Master Chief Lee Bethel read the Chief Petty Officer’s Creed, reminding the newly promoted Chiefs, “More will be expected of you, more will be demanded of you.”

The rank of CPO was established by the Department of the Navy in 1893, and has remained in the service without pause ever since. It is a position unique from other services, carrying with it a new set of responsibilities, including higher expectations of leadership and administrative tasks.

The new Chiefs also received their new khaki combination covers from their sponsors, the Chiefs who guided them through the month-long induction process that culminated in a strenuous overnight event. They then led the Chiefs Mess in singing “Anchors Aweigh,” and were welcomed as Chiefs by the wardroom and crew.

USS Green Bay is the fourth San Antonio class amphibious transport dock and is homeported in San Diego, CA.