Direct Line

CMDCM Anna Wood, NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief

Buongiorno, Sigonella!

I LOVE BEING A CHIEF! This year marks my 17th year as a Chief Petty Officer, and I remember the day I was pinned with my Gold Fouled Anchors like it was yesterday. I remember how excited, proud, and nervous I was. As this week culminates in the pinning of our newest Chiefs, my thoughts carry me back to that day. I recall what it meant to be “THE CHIEF” back then and how important it is to refresh our knowledge, discuss our experiences and develop our networks year after year. I wake up every morning knowing that I am a Chief Petty Officer in the United States Navy and I am filled with humble pride! I also wake up knowing that I have to earn my title by my words and my actions. As of November 19, 2021, I can now share those feelings with our newest Chief Petty Officers from Naval Air Station Sigonella across all our services! Yes, I said all of our services because this year we had members from the United States Marine Corps, Air Force, and Army go through initiation alongside our Navy comrades!

To all of the new Chiefs, you are doing far more than simply pinning on anchors, changing your uniform, and donning a new cover. These are the outward signs of your transformation, but more importantly, I want you to focus on the internal transformation as well. You have been trained, tested, and accepted. As a result of this, you should not be scared or daunted by what lies ahead of you. Instead, you should be excited and honored by your newfound increased responsibilities. You have now become the Navy’s newest standard bearers and standard enforcers. As the CPO creed states, your entire way of life has changed. More will be expected of you; more will be demanded of you. I am excited for each and every one of you and your families.

Congratulations to the new chief petty officers! Buona fortuna and buon lavoro!

“You are the chief. The exalted position you have achieved — and the word exalted is used advisedly — exists because of the service, character, and performance of the chiefs before you. It shall exist only as long as you and your fellow chiefs maintain these standards. It was our intention that you never forget this day. It was our intention to test you, to try you, and to accept you. Your performance has assured us that you will wear “the hat” with the same pride as your comrades in arms before you.We take a deep and sincere pleasure in clasping your hand, and accepting you as a chief petty officer in the United States Navy.” -Chief Petty Officer’s Creed