Enterprise Sailors Anticipate Enlisted Warfare Pin Requirement

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jared M. King, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) were underway conducting fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications July 20, and had the opportunity to work toward their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist (EAWS) pins.

Sailors who earn their warfare pins are more knowledgeable and competitive for advancement than those who do not.

Completing the personnel qualification standard book and gaining firsthand experience with all aspects of the ship provides the Sailor with the "big picture" of how all departments work together to accomplish the mission.

Every Sailor who has the opportunity to qualify in a warfare at a command, should have a warfare qualification, according to Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SS/SW) Rick West.

West served most of his career in the Submarine Force which requires all Sailors, regardless of pay grade, to have a warfare pin. West said the intent is to make it mandatory for all Sailors to acquire their primary warfare pin.

"I see no reason why a seaman or airman apprentice, once they've completed their basic shipboard qualifications, can't start moving toward getting their pin," West said in a previous statement.

Sailors spend many hours attaining professional skills, knowledge and military experience before earning their pins.

After enrolling in the ESWS/EAWS programs, Sailors have no more than 18 months to complete the qualifications before they are removed from the program.

Senior Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW) Bryan A. Elkins, Enterprise's EAWS program coordinator, said the warfare pin signifies dedication and a general knowledge of all aspects of shipboard and strike group operations.

"Earning a warfare pin shows that the Sailor is competent in his/her rating and they have acquired additional knowledge that enhances their understanding of warfighting, mission effectiveness and ship survivability," said Elkins.

Enterprise is at sea preparing for work-ups leading to its 21st deployment.