Chief petty officers (CPOs) and CPO selectees from throughout Hampton Roads gathered for CPO Heritage Day, dedicated to mentoring the Navy’s newest chiefs, aboard historic battleship Wisconsin (BB 64), August 21.

The day began at 4 a.m. as numerous CPO selectees and their sponsors mustered at Harbor Park Stadium. Quickly falling into formation by command, the group proceeded to march to the sound of cadence and made their way through the heart of downtown Norfolk to battleship Wisconsin.

Former USS Wisconsin (BB 64) received her commission April 16, 1944, under the command of Capt. Earl E. Stone. During her tenure as an active U.S. Navy warship, she earned five battle stars during World War II, her sixth battle star during the Korean War, and another during Operation Desert Storm. The ship played a crucial role in liberating Kuwait from invading Iraqi forces during the Gulf War. The ship was decommissioned Sept. 30, 1991, under the command of Capt. Coenraad van der Schroeff following 47-years of service.

CPO selectees formed eight teams and proceeded to board Wisconsin and visit select stations throughout the ship. Each station presented a unique aspect of naval heritage.

One station featured retired Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Duane R. Bushey, who served as the seventh MCPON 1988-1992. He was instrumental in restructuring the CPO induction process.

"This is the greatest promotion you will ever have," said Bushey while speaking with a group of chief selects. "Some of you will go on to warrant officer, some to limited duty officer, and one of you may end up making captain one day. Still, this is the best promotion because this is the one where you go through the process that brings you into the brotherhood [of the Chiefs Mess]."

On Sept. 16, hundreds of Sailors will receive their distinguished fouled anchor collar devices. Upon pinning them on and assuming the role of being "the chief," each will step into a larger world of honor, prestige, and most importantly, a responsibility to all the chiefs who came before them and to those who will one day succeed them.

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