Photo By Cpl. Jackeline Perez Rivera | The color guard stands in front of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune’s newest chief...... read more read more
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CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - With a bell announcing their arrival to the rank, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune’s newest chief petty officers were promoted in front of hundreds of friends, families and peers during a ceremony at the Base Theater, Sept. 16.
Guests gathered to welcome the 22 inductees, comprised of sailors from units throughout the base.
Earning chief petty officer is more than just a promotion in the Navy. It’s an entrance to a new world for the enlisted sailors who make the cut, said Senior Chief Petty Officer Vince Soto, a chairman of the Chief Petty Officer Induction Season.
"It’s the ultimate accomplishment," said Soto. "Everything after chief is extra. It’s what we strive for. It’s definitely the pinnacle of their careers."
In addition to testing and a selection board, each selected chief petty officer must undergo a six-week induction program that tests the intangible features the leaders will need, such as strength of character, leadership and teamwork, said Senior Chief Petty Officer Erik Vazquez, a chairman of the CPOIS.
"It prepares them for what they will face for the rest of their careers," said Soto, a native of Brooklyn, New York.
The sailors were encouraged by mentors, who led them throughout the induction program, and beyond, he added.
"Every sponsor will continue to mentor them for years to come," said Vazquez, a native of Ponce, Puerto Rico. "It’s about building them up to what it takes to wear the anchors. We don’t wear them lightly. We earn them every day."
Chief petty officers earn their place by taking care of the sailors in their charge, and it’s not a responsibility to take lightly, said Chief Petty Officer Andray Williams, a new inductee from Tampa, Florida.
"It’s a humbling experience," Williams said. "You don’t get here alone. You get here with the help of a lot of good sailors."
| Date Taken: | 12.10.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 12.10.2014 09:13 |
| Story ID: | 149917 |
| Location: | CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 62 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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