3rd Class

On Thursday, November 30th, I received word that I was selected for advancement to Petty Officer 3rd Class. Needless to say, I was excited. There was quite a battle in the third week of September between the test of my rate and myself. Two hours later, I would have sworn to you that that test kicked my poor, little ass. Alas! It did not. In turn, I, apparently, kicked it's ass. How? I haven't the foggiest. Our rate has been closed for some time since the merger in 2003. Last cycle, the Navy advanced over 100 to chief. Given that, we knew that the rate was beginning to open up. One thing that came to a surprise was how it opened up. It would be logical to assume that the rate would open up from the top-down. 100 are made chief would open up 1st class, then 2nd class, and then finally 3rd class. The opposite happened. 79.2% were made 3rd class, 66% were made 2nd class, and only 29.4% were made 1st class. Unfortunately, during this arduous fight, a sea brother was left behind. As long as we are both are aboard Gridley, there will always be MarPar.

The Frocking (putting on the crow) will take place this Friday. The pay, unfortunately, will not come until 6 months later. Go Government!