Nine Sailors from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet (C3F), Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 15, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3 and Tactical Training Group Pacific (TTGP) earned the title of "chief" during a chief petty officer (CPO) pinning ceremony Sept. 16.

The ceremony followed a six-week training period known as CPO 365 Phase Two, which began when the CPO advancement results were released. During phase two, senior leaders introduced the chief selects to challenges designed to strengthen their leadership skills and to provide a better understanding of what it means to be a Navy chief. Phase two also included training on the history and traditions of the CPO Mess, tough physical challenges, mentorship and many other responsibilities.

During the ceremony, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet Vice Adm. Nora Tyson said they should be proud of the extremely rich heritage they have become a part of, and she emphasized the special trust and confidence placed in them to perform their best.

"Every morning you'll have to wake up and look in the mirror at yourself and tell yourself it is your duty to set the example," said Tyson. "Today, you are the leaders that every Sailor in the fleet wants to become. Most important, you have to mentor and mold our nation's greatest asset, the young men and women who sign up to defend our nation and our way of life against any enemy. I cannot imagine a Navy without chiefs because there wouldn't be one."

Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Master Chief Loran Bather told the newly pinned chiefs it is now their duty to train the future Sailors of the fleet and the future Sailors who will one day become chiefs. Bather said the tests have just begun, and the challenges and mentoring must continue in order to keep the Chiefs Mess strong, and ensure the Navy's success.

"It is up to you to carry on our long established traditions and continue the Navy's legacy," said Bather. "This is a good group, and I know they will do great things."

After being pinned with their anchors, each chief received a combination cover signifying a new position of leadership and responsibility.

"This is a change unlike any other rank change in the military, and I encourage other first class petty officers to find mentors who will constantly push you to meet your goals." said Chief Engineman Arturo Cervantes. "This day is something everyone works for in their Navy career. During my time at 3rd Fleet, I have had outstanding mentors, whether they were officers, chiefs or junior enlisted, their guidance is what has helped me reach this point."

U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Eastern Pacific from the west coast of North America to the international date line and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, visit www.c3f.navy.mil/.