I am currently a Lieutenant Junior Grade serving in the Navy Reserve. I have approximately 18 years of service under my belt and have served in a variety of locations and jobs. I spent roughly 10 years on active duty before separating and joining the Navy Reserves.

On active duty, I was an AT (Aviation Electronics Technician) and spent most of my service in the Pacific Fleet. I served for 3½ years onboard the U.S.S. Independence while she was homeported in Japan. I did 2 WESTPACs while onboard and got to see a lot of the "good" ports.

In the Reserves, I changed ratings to IS (Intelligence Specialist) and have served in several commands.

Like many Chiefs, the day I pinned on my anchors was one of the most memorable days of my life. I can still remember the pinning vividly with my wife on one side and my sponsor on the other. It truly is a life-changing event and one that I am very proud of.

But like many LDOs and CWOs, I wanted to do more with my career. I realized that I would have to "take a step back" in order to do this, but in the long run, I think it is what was best for me and the Navy. It gives me the opportunity to serve longer and eventually, if all goes well, to serve at a level where I can make an even bigger difference.

Many people (Chiefs and Officers alike) have asked me, "Why would you possibly want to go from being a Chief to being an Ensign (or some less favorable term)?" I give them an answer similar to what I said in my application...

I'll be honest, the money doesn't hurt, both now and when I retire. But that isn't the main reason I chose to pursue this path. I chose to apply and accept a commission as a LDO because I want to continue to make a difference in the best way I can. As a Chief, I can honestly say I can do a lot and make things happen. But there's only so far one can go and only so long one can serve. As a LDO officer, I have the opportunity to serve longer. If I am lucky and fortunate enough to become an XO or a CO, I will have the opportunity to shape and mold many people. Will it take a long time to get there? Yes! But in the end, I think it will be worth it.

So why make this site? To help other prospective Chiefs and LDO/CWOs in their journey to bettering themselves. I've collected resources and information over the years and it seems a terrible waste not to share them so others can benefit.

I hope you find something helpful here. If you know of something that I've missed, let me know and I'll add it to the collection for others to learn from.

This site is provided as a service to fellow sailors. While I have made an effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein , I make no guarantee that what is found here is accurate. By entering this site you acknowledge and agree that your use of the information is at your own risk and that none of the parties involved in creating, producing or delivering this site is liable for any loss, injury, claim, liability or damage of any kind.