Fifty-five Sailors from various commands at Naval Station Norfolk and Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads donned khaki uniforms and combination covers for the first time during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony, Sept. 16.

Dating back to the foundation of the Chief Petty Officer paygrade in 1893, the chiefs' pinning ceremony is a tradition unique to the Navy. The ceremony signifies a new position of increased leadership and responsibility.

"This ceremony is the culmination of diligence," said Capt. Rich McDaniel, executive officer, Naval Station Norfolk. "It's an endorsement from Navy leadership that you have what it takes to lead as a Chief Petty Officer."

During the ceremony, family members and friends pinned two gold anchors to each newly appointed chief's uniform, and the Sailor's sponsor placed the khaki combination cover on their heads.

After the ceremony, families, friends, sponsors and shipmates congratulated the newly appointed chiefs on their accomplishment.

Among those newly pinned was Chief Information Systems Technician Aimie Windemiller who said that it is hard to put into words just how amazing it feels to be a Chief Petty Officer.

"I'm almost without words," said Senior Chief Aviation Support Equipment Technician Jamie Windemiller, husband to Aimie Windemiller. "The process, watching her go through it, I'm so amazingly proud.

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