A Syracuse–area native was recently selected for promotion to chief warrant officer (CWO) while serving aboard the U.S. Navy ship USS Makin Island. Senior Chief Petty Officer James Parrott joined the Navy 18 years ago. “My grandfather served in the Army and I joined the Navy to better myself as a citizen,” he says. Today, Parrott […]
A Syracuse–area native was recently selected for promotion to chief warrant officer (CWO) while serving aboard the U.S. Navy ship USS Makin Island.
Senior Chief Petty Officer James Parrott joined the Navy 18 years ago.
“My grandfather served in the Army and I joined the Navy to better myself as a citizen,” he says.
Today, Parrott currently serves as a culinary specialist.
“I love being a culinary specialist,” says Parrott. “I love to see how something so basic as food can change the morale of the crew. I love the artistic freedom we get to create dishes that please.”
Growing up in the Syracuse area, Parrott graduated from C.W. Baker High School in Baldwinsville in 2002. According to Parrott, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Central New York.
“Growing up I learned to work hard, to grind and to never give up,” says Parrott.
Limited duty officer (LDO) and CWO are two separate programs that provide the Navy with officer technical managers and technical specialists who exercise leadership in key positions throughout the service. Combined, these two communities make up more than 11 percent of the officer corps. Both programs provide the opportunity for outstanding senior enlisted personnel to compete for a commission.
LDOs are the technical managers of the line or staff corps and progressively advance within broad technical fields related to their former enlisted ratings. They fill leadership and management positions at the ensign through captain level that require technical background and skills not attainable through normal development within other officer designators.
Navy CWOs are commissioned officers of the line or staff corps and are qualified by extensive experience and knowledge to direct the most difficult and exacting operations within a given occupational specialty.
According to Navy officials, USS Makin Island is the eighth and final wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the second ship in the Navy to bear the name. The USS Makin Island is unique because it’s the only ship in her class powered by LM 2500+ gas-turbine engines and electric drive. Additionally, USS Makin Island is the only LHD to feature an all-electric design — no steam is used onboard the vessel.
The ship is crewed by more than 1,000 sailors and can embark more than 1,600 Marines. Amphibious assault ships, such as USS Makin Island, are designed to deliver Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts. Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.
Serving in the Navy means Parrott is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances, and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy contributes to national defense by being a show of force,” says Parrott. “We are present all around the world, which helps our allies feel safe and keeps our adversaries in check.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers while serving in the Navy. Parrott says he is proud of being selected for promotion.
“My greatest accomplishment in the Navy is when my sailors advance and later on become better leaders than myself,” says Parrott.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Parrott, as well as other sailors, know they are part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs, and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who follow.
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” adds Parrott. “It gives me a chance to better myself while protecting the ones I love, and it allows me to influence a younger generation to keep our history and traditions forever living.”