The U.S. Pacific Fleet Fleet CPO Training Team (FCPOTT) held a daylong training session for Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 chief petty officers, Feb. 15.

Led by two post-tour command master chiefs, the training consisted of facilitated topical discussions meant to increase awareness of individual and team attributes which can be improved in order to create enhanced unit cohesiveness.

Participating chiefs were able to determine strengths and weaknesses and learn new ways to effectively communicate to senior officers, as well as junior Sailors.

"This training opened my eyes to new approach to be a better leader," said Chief Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Jeffrey McConn, a member of the CTF 76 staff. "I learned that a cornerstone to success is to know your people -- and know how to communicate with them."

Established in 2010, the training team conducts daylong training sessions for Chiefs Messes, First Class Petty Officer Associations (FCPOAs), and wardrooms at ship's and facilities where those personnel work. The command master chief instructors help the command identify challenges it faces and determine the best way to overcome those challenges. Sessions usually incorporate a lot of self-assessment and then collaboration, as a Chiefs Mess for example, on how to move forward.

"We hope that everything they identified applies to everyday life here at the command -- for the command's overall benefit," said Commander Master Chief James Grant. "It's about improving processes for a better functioning Chiefs Mess or wardroom that can then, in turn, improve the lives and careers of Sailors in the command."

Grant and Command Master Chief Robert Everson are trainers for Pacific Fleet.

Prior to visiting CTF 76 staff in Okinawa, the Fleet CPO Training Team conducted a similar training with amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 42) in Sasebo with petty officers first class, CPOs, and the wardroom. The team also conducted training session for Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7 personnel.

"Leaders at all levels can benefit from this training and the process of assessment," said Grant. "You become more aware of how you can perform as a team, which leads to mission success."

CTF 76/Expeditionary Strike Group 7 is the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force, headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa.

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