Training Support Center (TSC) San Diego celebrated the chief petty officer 125th birthday onboard Naval Base San Diego March 30.

The event began with a reading of a message from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Steven Giordano and a brief history lesson on the establishment of the chief petty officer rank.

"The chief's birthday is a time to remember our history and heritage," said Chief Electrician's Mate Willie Scott. "Today we reinforce the idea that wearing the uniform of a chief means abiding by the highest standards in our Navy. This celebration is a professional military education event for our officers and junior Sailors. Today was more than a cake-cutting ceremony, it's a lesson in naval history."

TSC San Diego Command Master Chief Christopher Cline highlighted the value chiefs have in today's Navy, specifically on the influence that a chief carries over junior Sailors.

"You are the standard, live up to it. As chiefs, we set the tone," said Cline. "As you think about that, you must continue to always do so. Not just for TSC, but for our Navy and the country that we serve."

The celebration ended with words from TSC San Diego Commanding Officer Capt. Michael Feyedelem and the traditional cake cutting by the oldest and youngest chief petty officer present.

"It's impossible to be successful in the Navy, as an officer or enlisted, without the support, training and mentorship of chief petty officers," said Feyedelem. "I've learned that it is impossible to have a great command without a great Chief's Mess. They have to lead the workers while supporting a commander's vision. Not an easy job, but those who do it well are priceless."

For information about TSC San Diego visit:
http://www.netc.navy.mil/centers/tscsd/Default.aspx.

For additional information on the Naval Education and Training Command, visit the NETC website: https://www.netc.navy.mil or http://www.navy.mil/local/cnet/. Follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/netcpao and Twitter @netcpao.