A boatswain's mate whistle piped ashore 17 newly pinned chief petty officers at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLC-FS), Sept. 16, officially promoting a new crop of chiefs.

Fellow Sailors, family members and friends were on hand to witness and celebrate this milestone event in the new chiefs' naval careers.

Guest speaker Rear Adm. Frank Morneau, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) spoke candidly with the chiefs prior to their pinning reminding them that they are now "the beating heart of our Navy" and the responsibilities they are now tasked to uphold.

"All over our globe this is happening, everywhere in the world, leaders in the U.S. Navy are pinning its Chiefs," said Morneau, who advised the selectees to lead their Sailors, mentor their junior officers, and maintain the integrity of the Chief's Mess. "Your anchors symbolize the tremendous responsibilities you now hold as a chief petty officer."

Officiating the ceremony, Senior Chief Equipment Operator Josephine Gillmer, alluded to the pivotal moment obtained by the chief selectees.

"We are gathering here today to bear witness to the most significant transition in their naval careers," said Gillmer.

Capt. Quinn Skinner, executive officer, JEBLC-FS, recognized the outpouring support of chiefs during the "CPO 365 Phase II" pinning season and transition from first class petty officer to chief.

"Thank you to all of the families, friends, and mentors who have shaped these chiefs' lives," said Skinner.

Chief Personnelman Silvia Martinez, one of eight females to receive her anchors, spoke of the impact of her and her fellow chiefs' accomplishments.

"I can't even put into words what this day means to me, I am filled with emotion and pride," said Martinez. "Everything we have been working toward is all summed up with today's ceremony."

Martinez further added that the chiefs promoted today will "hit the deck plate running to lead our Navy and its Sailors."

Chief Musician Jeremy Bustillos, an instructor at the Naval School of Music, one of nine male chiefs to receive anchors, spoke of the collective accomplishment of his fellow chiefs and those who supported him along his naval journey.

"Today is the happiest moment of my naval career, but no one gets here by themselves a lot of people have helped me along the way and I owe a debt of gratitude to all of the Sailors I have worked with and the Chiefs who have guided me along the way," said Bustillos.

Juanita Wells, a civilian attending the pinning ceremony and a life-long friend of Bustillos spoke of her pride of his accomplishment.

"It has been fascinating watching his career develop and his success in the Navy," said Wells.


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