USS Theodore Roosevelt Advances 264 Sailors

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chris Brown, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (NNS) -- On the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) 264 Sailors were advanced to the next pay grade during a frocking ceremony, May 24.

Capt. Daniel Grieco, Theodore Roosevelt's commanding officer, personally presented a frocking letter to each Sailor and congratulated them for their achievement.

"I can't say how proud I am of this entire crew," said Grieco. "One of the great things I have the pleasure of doing as a commanding officer is to see you all progress and promote so we can put more responsibility on you and you can advance your careers to go on and do great things."

Frocked Sailors receive the right to wear the uniform and assume the responsibilities of their next pay grade as a result of their hard work and dedication while continuing leadership development.

"It feels great to make [petty officer 2nd class]", said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Rick Jones, from Cambridge, Maryland. "It's motivation to work harder for my people and help them advance."

Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Eddie Lowery Walsh, a native of Lynnwood, Washington, attributed his recent success to hard work and help from his mentor.

"This feels absolutely amazing," said Lowery. "I studied every night in my rack for four months. Hard work will take you a long way in the Navy."

The Navy has used the term frocking throughout its history, but frocking was not officially referred to as part of an advancement policy until published in the Bureau of Naval Personnel Manual in 1974.

TR promoted 143 Sailors to third class petty officer, 94 to second class petty officer and 26 to first class petty officer.