Service.

Navigation.

These are the values that represent the U.S. Navy and are identified by the letters U. S. N. worn on every navy chief petty officer’s collar.

Thirty four petty officers pinned-on chief in a ceremony at the South Mesa Club, Sept. 16, where hundreds of service members, family and friends gathered to witness the unique traditional event. 

“To the novice, the anchor’s chain and letters only identify a chief petty officer of the United States Navy,” said Command Master Chief Petty Officer Michael R. Ruiz, 1st Marine Division. “But to a chief, these have a more noble and glorious meaning.”

During the ceremony, command master chiefs read the “Presentation of Anchors” and “Donning Of The Hat,” that explains the difference between chief ranks and other enlisted personnel.

“The combination covers hold a special significance in the chief’s community,” said Command Master Chief Petty Officer German E. Fiesco, I Marine Expeditionary Force, during “Donning of the Hat” speech. “The easiest way to distinguish a chief was by the fact that he wore a combination cover instead of the white hat.”

One by one, chief selects were pinned by their families, donned the combination cover from their leaders and referred to as “chief” for the first time.

Before becoming a chief petty officer, petty officers 1st class have to go through an induction process, where they complete a series of events, such as training and physical performance tests. However, some events are kept secret as a part of the old naval tradition.

“Only in the United States Navy, the rank of E-7 carries unique responsibilities and privileges you are now bound to observe and expected to fulfill,” said Master Chief Petty Officer Jill Eastin, deputy command master chief, Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, as she addresses the new chiefs. “We take deep and sincere pleasure in clasping your hand and accepting you as a chief petty officer in the United States Navy.”