by Navy Office of Community Outreach
(MILLINGTON, Tenn.) – Navy Chief Interior Communication Electrician Brian Wright from Salem, Indiana, was recently promoted to chief petty officer, an accomplishment that only one in five eligible sailors achieve each year.
Chief Wright is currently serving aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.
“Being selected for chief petty officer means a much needed change of scenery for me,” said Wright. “I have been a first class petty officer for a decade, so being selected is a whole new level of respect amongst my peers, subordinates, and family.”
Achieving the title of ‘Navy Chief’ is a major honor and milestone. According to Navy Personnel Command, there are only 8.5 percent of sailors currently serving at the chief petty officer rank.
To be selected for this promotion, sailors must be a petty officer 1st class, and successfully navigate through two qualifying factors: a job-based exam and a selection review board. A sailor’s record can only proceed to the review board after they score high enough on the exam. Once the exam is passed, their records are reviewed by a panel of senior navy leaders who meet for six weeks to determine if the individuals meet the standards for selection as a chief petty officer. A sailor’s performance is evaluated for at least five years, and each sailor attributes different experiences for their selection.
“I worked hard always and always strive to do my best,” said Wright. “My chain of command was the difference; they took care of me. They gave me guidance and I followed it.”
During the ceremony, the honored sailors invite friends and family members to pin on the two gold anchors that adorn the newly appointed chiefs’ uniforms, while the sailor’s sponsor places the combination cover on their heads.
“I would have to thank my friends and family,” said Wright. “They are the reason I’m still in the Navy. The Navy has provided for me therefore I can provide for them. In return they are my rock. They are my lighthouse.”