The Chiefs Messes at Naval Base Point Loma (NBPL) welcomed 18 new chief petty officers (CPOs) during a pinning ceremony, Sept. 16.

During the time-honored ceremony, friends and family members adorned their newly-appointed chiefs with their gold fouled anchors and combination covers. Capt. Howard Warner III, commanding officer of NBPL, emphasized the role of leadership in the life of a chief.

"Chiefs support their division officers and contribute to their professional development," said Warner. "Chiefs take initiative individually and as a group to develop programs, anticipate problems and recommend new procedures. They use outside resources, [and] go outside their units to seek for help or advice to help them get the job done."

Warner continued his praise of the CPOs' quality and consistency over the past 100 years.

"One constant has been the quality of the chief petty officers the United States Navy produces year in and year out," said Warner. "As I look over all the spectrums of ratings sitting here today, I know we have chosen wisely. The chief always has been and always will be the anchor to every problem-solving effort."

The pinning ceremony formally marked the end of CPO 365 Phase II training for the newly-pinned chiefs. During this period, the Chiefs Mess took the selectees under their wing to challenge and strengthen their leadership skills, teaching them what it means to be a chief in the United States Navy.

Newly-pinned Chief Electrician's Mate (Nuclear) Alexander Bezaitis, assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 11 described his feelings about becoming a CPO.

"Oh man, it feels great to finally be here at this moment and get my anchors." said Bezaitis. "It's a great honor. I'll never forget it."

The CPO pinning ceremony is a tradition unique to the Navy, dating back to 1893 when the grade was created.

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