Table of contentsWho is a chief?The future challenges of the messMaking a changeWhy do I want to be a chief?Works citedVideo version Chief petty officers of the Navy have officially existed since April 1, 1893 The Navy Chief is considered the linchpin of the service and is often considered the pinnacle of an enlisted Marine's career. Through this essay, I want to address the important traits of a leader, how I can make a difference in the mess, the future challenges of the mess, and most importantly, why I want to become a chief petty officer. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”?Get the original essayWho is a leader?A leader is a leader who has been trained from the lowest rank of the totem pole. They have advanced in pay grades and demonstrated their technical knowledge, willingness to lead, loyalty and dedication to the Sailors with whom they serve. When a leader receives his anchors, it is an acceptance of an even greater responsibility he owes to those in his charge. Being a technical expert is not something that is learned strictly by reading manuals. It's a life experience. This involves rebuilding the equipment on board a ship or installation. An expert is able to analyze, troubleshoot, and repair equipment efficiently while doing so safely and in accordance with documentation. A leader must have the will to lead. This doesn’t just mean being a manager. It means developing subordinates and shaping superiors. A leader will use his or her resources to ensure that Sailors are successful in completing the mission. Loyalty can be a funny thing. It can lead people to do great things or destroy an organization. Loyalty to Sailors helps ensure that leaders make decisions that are in the best interest of Sailors versus what they want. Blind loyalty does not follow the concept of energetic support from a monitoring team with a questioning attitude. This will lead to a path where unethical or selfish decisions are made at the expense of the mission and/or Sailors. Future Mess Challenges Times are changing. Each generation of sailors has noticed significant differences between themselves and “these new sailors.” You often hear it in phrases like "Back in my day" or "When those kids weren't so crazy." It seems that with the rapid evolution of American culture, the mess will have to adapt to the “social norms” of young sailors entering the Navy. These Sailors are the ones who will end up making the Mess in as little as 6 years. There are rates where advancement can occur so quickly that Sailors entering the mess may not have the maturity or social knowledge required to behave in the mess. Making a Change Being in the mess doesn't always mean following the crowd. Leaders are leaders, not sheep. Yes, the Mess is a unified voice and body. Of course, there can be differences of opinion behind closed doors. No, you don't have to agree. I can be a very critical person. It's something I've been working on. Being critical in offering solutions can be helpful in the mess. This leads to innovation, out-of-the-box thinking and keeps things fresh. Being critical with reproaches – well, that only leads to hatred and discontent. I'm not afraid to challenge norms. I'm also not afraid to have a little fun. I hope this brings new energy and perspective to the mess I'm a part of. Keep in mind: this is just a sample.