Upon completion of a six-week induction process known as CPO 365 Phase II, or "Chief Season," 31 chief petty officer selectees were officially promoted to the rank of CPO aboard aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Sept. 16.

During the last six weeks the chief selectees were put through a series of trials by senior leadership in order for them to learn how to think and act like a chief.

"The season is all about a growing-up process, forging with fire," said Senior Chief Electricians Mate (Nuclear) Joel Lattimer. "We have been tested and now we are testing them. Once they come through the season, not only are they a bit stronger, but they know that they are part of a team that's going to move forward and beat all challenges."

The crew of GHWB stood at attention as the chief selectees proudly marched in the hangar bay singing "Anchors Aweigh," displaying the Navy pride and unity that is inherent in the title of chief petty officer.

Following inspirational speeches from Capt. William Pennington, commanding officer of GHWB, and Command Master Chief Huben L. Phillips, the chief selectees stepped forward individually to have their coveted gold fouled anchors pinned on their collars and the combination covers of a chief petty officer placed upon their heads.

"We have heard that 'When you become chief, it is no longer about you; it is all about your Sailors,'" said Phillips. "It will always be about your Sailors, but my philosophy differs just a bit. I believe it is about you [chiefs] more than ever. It is about members of our Chiefs Mess, which ultimately leads us to serve them -- our Sailors."

The final step in the chief pinning ceremony was for the newly-appointed chiefs to be officially announced as they received honors from side boys and received their first salutes as chief petty officers.

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