For one enlisted steelworker, 2016 is definitely a year for goal obtainment when he trades his enlisted insignia for an officer crest on March 4, one day before the 74th anniversary of the establishment of the Seabees.

Steelworker 1st Class Christopher Hefner, currently assigned to Underwater Construction Team One at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach, will be commissioned as an Ensign and said of obtaining this milestone event in his career has been a long-term goal of his.

Hefner will receive his commission through the Limited Duty Officer (LDO) commissioning pipeline.

"The LDO program provides me an opportunity to ascend through the officer ranks and pass my leadership experiences and knowledge onto the next generation of Sailors while continuing higher education pursuits for myself," said Hefner, who hails from Alger, Michigan.

Hefner, who has been in the Navy for more than 11 years, has followed in his family's calling to serve one's country.

"Most of my family has served in the enlisted ranks, such as my father, uncle, both grandfathers, as well as my great uncle who served in the submarine force and retired at the rank of commander," said Hefner.

When asked what he hopes to pass onto those he will lead Hefner offered that he would help bridge the officer and enlisted communities and share the lessons he has learned in the Seabee force.

"I want to be in a position of optimal effectiveness in the context of service to this country and in my skills and leadership style in fostering professional, personal and leadership development to my peers and those assigned to me," said Hefner, who added that his future naval commission "further fuels my desire for continued growth in the Navy."

Hefner's experience as a steelworker will not be lost when he gains his commission but rather transferred into the Civil Engineer Corps. Hefner will also retain his diving qualification when he checks into his next command at Underwater Construction Team Two in Port Hueneme, California.

"Being and enlisted Seabee and diver for 11 years has given me many valuable skills and leadership opportunities that will help me to lead and develop younger Sailors as a naval officer," said Hefner.

While the Seabees will celebrate their 74th anniversary worldwide, this year also marks the 149th anniversary of the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps.

One of the Sailors Hefner mentored and also learned from will render Hefner's first salute. Builder 1st Class (SCW/DV) Stephen Graddon emphasized the respect he has for his mentor in pursuing his career goals.

"Having the privilege of rendering Ensign Hefner his first salute is not only a great honor, but a highlight in my career," said Graddon. "Witnessing firsthand what hard work and determination can accomplish is yet another lesson my mentor passed on to me."


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