<p>"Always listen to your NCOs. COs may be in command, but NCOs are in charge." </p>
<p>After talking to some sailors, I've come to conclude that it is not uncommon to see a chief petty officer chew up an ensign and spit him out like a pack of Wrigley's. Junior officers are constantly scruitinized more than the rest of personel. This probably wouldn't be applied to the SA graduates as much, since that's what they are beeing prepared for 24/7/365, but for people who attened the ROTC Program or the Officer Candidate School this may present them such seemingly unjust situations.</p>
<p>What do you guys make of the quote? And what do you think about the occasional lack of respect to the newly commissioned officers due to their inexperience? Yes, it's true that eventually they'll get the hang of things, but what about in the meantime?</p>
<p>"Always listen to your NCOs. COs may be in command, but NCOs are in charge." </p>
<p>If any JO takes this phrase literally, they are going to run into many problems. Things that come down from the chain-of-command need to be executed. However, if someone within the chain-of-command might see a "problem," especially when it comes to safety or against a regulation, it is the duty of that individual to bring it up to the chain-of-command and have it corrected. If an individual thinks there is a better way to accomplish something, then they should bring it up with the chain. The CO is the one in authority and his word trumps anyone lower in rank and billet, whether you agree or disagree. This is sometimes the hard part of bring an officer -- being able to execute his/her orders even though you might be in disagreement. Remember the CO has the overall responsibility and accountability.</p>
<p>Also, the fact that officers come from different commissioning programs doesn't really give one a more significant advantage. At USNA, you do not prepare to become a SWO, Aviator, Submariner, etc. You go to college, learn general military skills, time management, and learn leadership. In no way can anyone teach you how to run a division (it isn't the same as running a unit at USNA) -- it is something that you must get from experience. Thus, prior enlisted probably have an advantage over anyone else.</p>
<p>I cannot see a chief chewing out any officer. If this is the case, the officer needs to have a stern talking, behind closed doors with the chief. If the issue isn't resolved, then the chain-of-command needs to get involved. Remember, chiefs can disagree and talk over certain issues in a respectful manner. Part of the CPO creed is to develop JOs and most of them "get" how to do this (considering they have been in for a bit and have earned their place). I can't imagine a scenario like this happens often.</p>