Three N1 Sailors were advanced to the rank of chief petty officer alongside forty other selectees during the chief petty officer pinning ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington D.C. Sept. 15.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson served as the guest speaker during this year's ceremony and spoke on the history and importance of chief pretty officers throughout naval history.

The chiefs' pinning ceremony is a Navy tradition that dates back to 1893, when the rank of chief petty officer was established.

Chief Yeoman (AW) Quinisha Abrahams, Chief Yeoman (SW/IW) Richard Bentancourt and Chief Personnel Specialist (SW) Michael Rangel were joined by family and friend during the ceremony to celebrate their accomplishment.

"I get to stand with my brothers and sisters," said Abrahams. "I never grew up with much family. Standing here is extra special because everyone really worked hard over the past six weeks to come together to get to know each other. I'm really grateful for those Sailors who mentored me and guided me throughout my career."

Sailors selected to advance were required to complete CPO 365 phase II training before donning the gold-fouled anchors. CPO 365 phase II is designed to prepare selectees for the responsibilities of being chief petty officers though various training regimes over several weeks. Under the supervision of senior enlisted leaders, CPO 365 phase II helps further shape the values of expertise, camaraderie, responsibility and leadership necessary for entrance into the chiefs' mess.

"Being a chief petty officer means being the backbone of the Navy," said Bentancourt. "It means being a leader on the front looking out for senior and junior Sailors. It also means you may not necessarily know the right answer, but you know where to find the answer."

Over 4000 selectees were advanced to the rank of chief petty officer worldwide. This marks the 124th class of newly appointed chiefs to join the Chiefs Mess.

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