MCPON Concludes Navy Week Chattanooga

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Abraham Essenmacher, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Public Affairs

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPON) of the Navy concluded his visit to Navy Week in Chattanooga, Tenn., June 13-15, with a visit to a local Children's hospital, a frocking ceremony and radio interviews with local stations.

MCPON(SS/SW) Rick D. West enjoyed spending time in Chattanooga, an area he considers to be part of his hometown, sharing the Navy story and showing Americans the investment they have made in their Navy.

"It's been a great experience interacting with the local community and giving them insight about what Sailors are doing every day around the world, and that their Navy is truly a Global Force for Good," said West.

MCPON, local Sailors and Sailors from USS Constitution passed out Navy command ballcaps to children during a 'Caps for Kids' event at the T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital in Chattanooga, Tenn.

"It was exciting to watch their eyes light up with joy when asked if we could make them an honorary Sailor," said USS Constitution's Command Master Chief (CMDCM)(SW/AW) Roxanne Rhoades. "I hope the children walk away with a smile and a sense of encouragement because we want them to know that not only do their families care about them, but the Navy and our Sailors care about them as well."

After visiting the children, MCPON stopped by the Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Chattanooga to frock six Sailors to their pay grade and hold an All Hands Call.

"I'm always excited to be a part of Sailors advancement ceremonies," said West. "It's a memorable time for them because they work hard to achieve this milestone in their careers."

MCPON spoke to the Sailors, thanked them for their participation in the Navy Week and took time to answer their questions.

"Our reserve Sailors are a very important part of our Navy, and it's important for me to stop by to visit with them and let them know they are doing great things," said West.

Finishing Chattanooga Navy Week, MCPON stopped by a couple of local radio stations for some on-air time to talk about the Navy and the importance of Navy Weeks in areas like Chattanooga.

Chattanooga Navy Week is scheduled to run through June 19, and is one of 21 Navy Weeks across the country this year. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they make in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.