About

“Standing outside the Chief's Mess, my heart pounded with a mix of excitement and nervousness. I had already pinned my Anchors, but this was my first official meeting as a new Chief and member of the Mess. As I opened the door, I took a deep breath and stepped inside, surrounded by my new Brothers and Sisters.

Inside the Mess, the atmosphere was a blend of anticipation and respect. The seasoned Chiefs had been busy preparing for the meeting, and the room exuded a sense of tradition and honor. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as I looked around, knowing that I was now part of this prestigious group of leaders.

As the meeting began, the senior Chiefs shared their stories of their journey to Chief Petty Officer. I listened intently, feeling inspired by their experiences and the challenges they had overcome. They emphasized the importance of mentorship, leading by example, and maintaining the highest standards of integrity.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie among those who had gone through the season with me. We were all embarking on this new chapter together, and we leaned on each other for support. The more experienced Chiefs also made an effort to welcome us, offering advice and guidance that was both practical and heartfelt.

As the meeting continued, I felt a sense of responsibility settling on my shoulders, even more so than that of being an LPO. Being a Chief was not just about the rank – it was about being a leader, a mentor, and a role model for the sailors under my charge. I knew that I had to step up and embody the values and principles that had brought me to this point in my career.

In the weeks and months that followed, I embraced my new role with enthusiasm. I faced challenges and made mistakes, but I learned from each experience and grew as a leader. The support and camaraderie of the Mess played a crucial role in my development. I looked up to the senior Chiefs, admiring their wisdom and striving to follow in their footsteps.

As time passed, I began to feel more at ease in my role as a Chief. I found joy in mentoring and guiding the sailors under my watch, passing on the knowledge and skills I had acquired throughout my career. The bond with my Brothers and Sisters grew stronger, and together, we continued the proud tradition of the Goat Locker.

As I sit now retired, looking back, that first meeting in the Chief's Mess marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. It was a day I would always cherish, as it set the course for my journey as a Chief Petty Officer – a journey of leadership, mentorship, and camaraderie that would define my naval career and leave a lasting legacy for those who would follow.”

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This would be the basis for my initial foray into laser cut wood products. I wanted something to commemorate that first meeting in the Mess. As I had looked around the table, everyone had a drink of some sort, whether it was the classic stained coffee mug of a well-seasoned Chief, a water bottle, a soda can… Everyone had refreshment. Yet, no one had a coaster. What better way to commemorate the addition of new Chiefs to the Mess, than to give each a customized and personalized coaster and begin a collection. New coasters could be added each year as we welcomed new Brothers and Sisters, while those who had moved on to new stations and new adventures could have their coasters mounted to a wall in memoriam of those who had come and gone.