MCPON Visit Inspires Patriotism, Professionalism, Pride

By H. Sam Samuelson, U.S. Fleet and Industrial Supply Center Yokosuka Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Master chief petty officer of the Navy (MCPON) met and discussed Navy issues with Sailors from Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC) Yokosuka, Japan, Aug. 31.

MCPON (SS/SW) Rick D. West's 18-day trip included all hands calls, tours and visits with enlisted members in Hawaii, Guam, Japan and Korea, discussing topics such as manning, rate mergers, education, uniforms and the future of the Navy.

FISC Yokosuka's Western Pacific enterprise includes 20 sites, detachments and fuel terminals spanning 19 countries. While on his visit, MCPON met with a number of FISC's Sailors, including Chief Logistics Specialist Ulysses Lor, from FISC Atsugi, and Logistics Specialist 1st Class LaShawna Calloway, from FISC Korea.

"The MCPON was very friendly, very positive and is genuinely interested and concerned about enlisted issues," said Calloway. "And, he also talked about family issues and how important they are in our military lives."

"He inspires. You can tell by his dedication to his role as the Navy MCPON that he is devoted to ensuring success in Sailors' professionalism and personal lives as well," said Lor.

It was during his final wrap-up visit to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka that FISC Yokosuka Command Master Chief (CMDCM) (SW/AW) Juan Morales engaged the MCPON on various enlisted issues.

"It was an informal but very enlightening talk," said Morales. "He had just delivered a pep talk to chief petty officer (CPO) selectees, providing them some very inspirational words about patriotism, leadership, pride and professionalism. He hasn't changed in the 10 years I've known him," said Morales.

Morales and West were acquaintances when West was force master chief for Commander, Submarine Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet in 2001.

"He was and remains one of the most energetic people I know; he's definitely one of the most energetic MCPONs I've known," said Morales.

Morales said it is that energy that helps the MCPON connect with younger Sailors.

"For his age, he is very connected with our younger Sailors," said Morales. "He knows how to communicate with them. He has presence on both Facebook and Twitter. The MCPON and younger Sailors may be from a different generations, but he shares with them a common understanding of the basic values of pride and professionalism."

Morales said he discussed the MCPON's priorities.

"His priorities include professionalism, physical fitness and being professionally competitive," said Morales.

Morales said the MCPON was proud that the Navy boasts the highest retention rate among the services and very low attrition.

"He told our CPO selectees that the next two to five years are going to be the most challenging in today's competitive Navy; performance will be more competitive than ever," said Morales.

Morales said the MCPON inspired what he communicates to his enlisted Sailors.

"Stay competitive, get your education, follow your sea-shore rotation schedule and performance, performance, performance," said Morales.