Twice a year, the hard work of thousands of Sailors comes to fruition through the Navy-wide advancement program.

Excitement and nervousness circled the air as Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) (GHWB) anxiously congregated in anticipation of the advancement results, May 23.

Executive Officer Capt. Gavin Duff, Command Master Chief Huben Phillips, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2 Chief of Staff Capt. Erik Nilsson, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 Deputy Commodore Capt. Tom Moninger read the results live on GHWB's shipboard information training and entertainment (SITE) TV system.

"It felt good to accomplish my goal on this deployment and in my career," said Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) 3rd Class Jimmie Howard. "Now I can become a better leader and have people look up to me in a different way."

Howard advised Sailors who are looking to advance to always take the opportunity to better themselves.

"Take in as much information as you can from your leaders and ask as many questions as you can," said Howard. "If you see something wrong, try to improve upon it. As cliche as it may sound, never give up. Things don't happen the way you want them to happen all the time, but you will get to the finish line."

Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Tyler Silva also advanced to E-5, and commented on the shock he felt the moment his name was called.

"I just didn't expect to actually make it," said Silva. "I definitely worked for it though. I have been operating as a second class for some time now, and I always try to check on my shipmates and make sure they are doing okay."

Moving forward, Silva plans on using his new chevron to continue helping others and making sure they have the tools they need to be successful.

"My biggest advice would be to study for the test with other people," said Silva. "If I could go back to change anything, it would be to make sure that more people around me gained success."

Three hundred sixty five GWHB Sailors were selected for promotion this advancement cycle.

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