Military Chief

Chiefs are vital, engaging professionals and mentors who have throughout history and present in today's military represent what it means to be a True Leader. The Navy frequently neglects the importance of the Chief. Knowing and understanding the history of the Chief, CPO 365, and the Chief’s Mess will assist with clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the Chief among the ranks. First, we must explore the history of the Chief to better understand their importance. According to CWO4 Lester B. Tucker (ret), USN, on April 1, 1893, the Chief rank was established to be the subject matter expert for junior Sailors and Officers alike. Chiefs are the icons that represent a leader you seek to solve problems, influence mission accomplishment, and drive policies, procedures, and standards. Along with these duties, Chiefs have the charge to develop and mold Sailors and junior Officers personally and professionally.
Knowing and understanding the history of the Chief, CPO 365, and the Chief’s Mess help clarify the roles and responsibilities of the Chief among the ranks. The Chief Petty Officer Creed on goatlocker.org states, “Your new responsibilities and privileges do not appear in print. They have no official standing; they cannot be referred to by name, number, nor file. They have existed for over 100 years, Chiefs before you have freely accepted responsibility beyond the call of printed assignment. Their actions and their performance demanded the respect of their seniors as well as their juniors. It is now required that you be the fountain of wisdom, the ambassador of good will, the authority in personal relations as well as in technical applications. "Ask the Chief" is a household phrase in and out of the Navy. You are now the Chief.” Chiefs wear anchors not just as an identifier of their rank, but as a symbol of importance, courage, and devotion to their Sailors and junior