USS Enterprise (CVN 65)
The Shuttle Newsletter Edition
“We are Legend”
September 21, 2012 Issue
Enterprise Administers Final Advancement Exam Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW/AW) Jared King
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea – Sailors aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) occupied the ship’s forward and aft mess decks as they took part in the final Navy-wide advancement exam to be administered aboard the “Big E” Sept. 20. As Enterprise continued its support of Operation Enduring Freedom in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, 473 eligible junior Sailors gathered in the early morning hours to participate in the E-4 advancement exam, which was facilitated by the ship’s Educational Services Office (ESO). “Preparation for the exam began months in advance,” said Chief Personnel Specialist Jasper D. Mitchell, the ship’s educational services officer. “It takes between five and six months of preparation to administer the exam.” As Enterprise steams toward the completion of its 25th and final deployment, the significance of Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Khadisha McMillan takes the E-4 advancement exam on the forward mess decks. (Photo by MC3 Jared King) the last advancement exam aboard the ship was not discounted by the Sailors taking the test. last of Enterprise’s long line of frocking ceremonies, I will “To be one of the last Sailors to test for advancement aboard feel grateful for the fact that the Navy has allowed me the Enterprise is indeed an honor,” said Personnel Specialist opportunity to advance in the ranks and become part of naval Seaman Jarrid L. Boykin, exam participant. “If I advance history and heritage.” in rank and become one of the many Sailors frocked in the As Enterprise brings to a conclusion a name that has been a symbol of the great struggle to retain American liberty, justice and freedom since the first days of the American Revolutionary War, it offers one final chance for its Sailors to begin their successful journey up the ranks. “The third class exam is the first step toward a goal that everyone hopes to achieve,” said Mitchell. “Whether it is senior enlisted or the officer ranks, advancement is a stepping stone that is exciting and that Sailors look forward to.” Enterprise has been a platform for many Sailors to develop their leadership and excel professionally, throughout its 51 years of service. “The time I spent aboard Enterprise has aided me in preparation for my advancement exam in ways I never would have thought,” said Boykin. “The saying is true, ‘there is tough and then there is Enterprise tough,’ I am glad to say I chose the latter.” Enterprise is scheduled to inactivate in a ceremony on December 1, 2012, following the completion of the ship’s current deployment, bringing to an end 51 years of Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Joseph Pongwisooti takes the E-4 distinguished service. advancement exam. (Photo by MC3 Scott Pittman)