The Emerald Coast Mustang Association (ECMA) hosted the Commander of the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) at its quarterly meeting April 15 on commissioning options and the strength of the community.

Rear Adm. Mike White told the group of Mustangs (officers that have at least four years prior enlisted service) and aspiring Limited Duty Officers (LDOs) and Chief Warrant Officers (CWOs) that beyond the LDO and CWO community's technical expertise, there's a significant leadership role.

"There is a very small population of Americans that are not only eligible but able and willing to join the Navy," said White. "A survey of new recruits showed that one of the most important reasons they decided to join was rewarding work, and that is where the LDO/CWO community plays a huge role. By working alongside you, they are able to witness someone who started at the lowest rank and turned it into a successful and accomplished career."

White went on to explain that LDOs and CWOs hold an important position; one reached due directly to hard work and dedication.

"This is a well-earned and well-deserved responsibility," White said. "You have grown up in the ranks to become the leaders we have come to expect. That makes you the foundation of the future of the Navy and the role models for the newest Sailors."

The remarks were made at the ECMA quarterly meeting, held at the Mustin Beach Officers' Club on board Naval Air Station Pensacola. Attendee's also heard information about the LDO and CWO selection boards convening Oct. 1. As the LDO/CWO community flag officer sponsor, White monitors the community's strength and advocates for them within the Navy. The ECMA's purpose is to provide a means of professional networking for Mustangs throughout the region and help develop young Sailors.

The NETC Chief of Staff Capt. John Jones also spoke to the group and addressed the LDO/CWO selection board process.

"When you get to this level we are looking at the best of the best," said Jones. "So it can be a narrow margin as to who is selected and not selected."

Jones highlighted the qualities and career milestones that aspiring LDO/CWO's should focus on to be successful including: promotion ranking, interviews, leadership traits, significant in-rate and watch station qualifications, certifications (especially Master Training Specialist (MTS), and difficulty of previous assignments held.

For more information on the LDO/CWO community and application information visit http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/officer/communitymanagers/ldo_cwo/Pages/default.aspx.

For more information about Naval Education and Training Command visit http://www.netc.navy.mil/.