Naval Air Station (NAS) Whiting Field recognized the accomplishments of soon-to-be-advanced sailors during a frocking ceremony Thursday, in the installation’s Operations Auditorium. Nineteen sailors were all smiles as they were able to wear the new collar devices for the first time.
The frocking ceremony is a Navy tradition providing the selected sailors an opportunity to wear the uniform and take on the responsibilities of their new rank before they are formally advanced. Second Class Petty Officers were frocked to First Class. Third Class Petty Officers were frocked to Second Class, and Airmen frocked to Third Class.
Each Sailor received a frocking letter from Capt. Todd Bahlau, NAS Whiting Field commanding officer, which reads in part, "Your appointment carries with it the obligation that you exercise increased authority and willingly accept greater responsibility. Occupying now a position of greater authority, you must strive with a renewed dedication toward the valued ideal of service with honor."
Sailors from NAS Whiting Field selected for advancement with their new ranks were: MA1 Daniel Devine, AC1 Aaron Fizur, AC1 Daniel Haupt, AC1 Mario Santis, AC2 John Arnold, AC2 Brittany Gansmann, AC2 Jason Meinhardt, Ac2 Chelsea Morgan, AC2 Jordan Neal, ABH2 Dane Powell, ABH2 Derrick Rogers, AC2 Suffa Starke, AC2 Darren Williams, AC3 Lukas Astrauskaas, AC3 Amanda Gonzales, AC3 Tinea Lewis, AC3 Matthew Peters, and AC3 Cleveland Smith Jr.
Bahlau praised the sailors on their accomplishment and expressed his excitement at seeing so many family members in the audience.
“It is truly a great occasion to have you all wear your new ranks today, and it is nice to see the families here. Sailors can’t advance without the help of each and every one of you. Today is a great day, so enjoy your achievement.”
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Sailors put on new rank