The Deckplates

Well today was the frocking ceremony and as I had expected, it was long, hot, and along with the frocking, there were awards to be given out and those checking in got a welcome aboard ball cap ceremony. The ball cap ceremony consisted of reciting the “Sailors Creed” and then those who sponsored the newcomers presented a Shiloh ball cap and the Captain welcomed aboard each individual personally.

The frocking ceremony lineup had me put in the front row going by rank and name. There are always a few first classes so obviously not many would be in that line, and because my last name is at the beginning of the alphabet, there was enough room to put me in front. What I didn’t realize that after I was presented my letter saying I was authorized to assume the title as Petty Officer Second Class, I was to lead the row behind everyone. Apparently I was supposed to go in a specific direction which no one discussed with me prior to the ceremony, so I make the first turn I see and end up behind the rest of the frockees. The person next to me is standing by herself and she tells me that she is getting her ESWS pin and at this point I have no clue what is going on. Then when the next row posted, I saw them walk past us and head to the very back of the flight deck. Now I knew I was completely fucked and had made a jackass of myself, but when you’re wrong, stay wrong. Finally it is reaching the end of the frocking part, and only a few lines remained, so I told those who were in my line to follow behind the next group. Everyone obviously noticed a line at the end leaving, but I didn’t want to get back to the front and look like I made a wrong turn at Albuquerque. I may not have been a second class for long, but I can say that wasn’t a good first impression of my decision making abilities.

Well now I start my life as a 2nd Class Petty Officer. I haven’t been hit with it yet but soon, I’m sure, I’ll get a nice big slap in the face and it won’t be pretty. I made the decision to do well on my test and willingly accepted the increased duties and responsibilities, so we’ll see where it goes from here.

Again, congrats to everyone who was promoted today and those who didn’t good luck next time.