Surface Warfare Officer School Unit (SWOSU) Great Lakes held a frocking ceremony for 11 staff members who advanced to the next pay grade, May 30.

The frocking ceremony, where Sailors receive the right to wear the uniform and assume the responsibilities of their next rank, is a Navy tradition that precedes actual advancement.

Advancing as petty officers were Damage Controlman 1st Class Zackery Crider, Hull Maintenance Technician 1st Class Marcos Gomez, Gas Turbine Systems Technician Mechanical 1st Class Kyle Hannah, Damage Controlman 1st Class Garrett Lindback, Damage Controlman 1st Class Cole Long, Gas Turbine Systems Technician Mechanical 1st Class Deariel Miles, Machinist's Mate 1st Class Donald Poche, Damage Controlman 1st Class Charles Presley, Gas Turbine Systems Technician Mechanical 1st Class Raymond Richmond, Quartermaster 1st Class Desiree Semma, Hull Maintenance Technician 1st Class Courtney Wanamaker.

"Advancing deserving petty officers is one of my favorite jobs as a commanding officer," said Cmdr. Terrance Patterson, commanding officer of SWOSU Great Lakes. "These Sailors standing in front of students every day are not just delivering training; they are examples of professionalism to the students. They are ready to take on the extra responsibilities as 1st class petty officers."


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