SHOW THE GOLD

                by FSC Lance (Jazzy) Holvoet

    All my fellow Chiefs have a Bravo jacket hanging in their locker.  It’s a little dusty, and sometimes wrapped in plastic.  Have you ever noticed the reaction you get from junior personnel when you put it on? Usually, it’s something along the lines of  “WOW!”  That gold rating badge with 5 or 6 gold hash marks, and a full set of ribbons and breast insignia, will elicit that sort of response.
     In our day-to-day activities it becomes easy to forget that our junior folks don’t completely grasp the effort that went into becoming a Chief.  That bravo jacket illustrates those efforts better than any other uniform.  Even the tropical blue uniform doesn’t illicit the same response.
    What’s different?
    First, the Chief’s rating badge stands out from all others with it’s two distinguishable features-  the rocker arm and the gold thread.  Both are marks of achievement, sacrifice, and dedication.  Add a star or two and it becomes even more prestigious.
    Second, when coupled with the rating badge, the gold service stripes seem to sheath the wearer in an aura of light.  Add the rainbow of colors depicted in a full set of ribbons, and the glitter of the breast insignia, and a Chief’s uniform becomes a sight that leaves a lasting impression.  Our Command Master Chief calls it the power of the gold.
    “Time to show the GOLD” he’ll say.
    The Coast Guard decided long ago to have a more homogenous uniform throughout the ranks.  While I’m sure the service thought it was a good idea at the time, they robbed both the junior enlisted and the Chiefs Corps of their individual identities.
    The Navy knew this was important.  Navy Chiefs differ from the junior sailors significantly.  From Dungarees to Khakis, Cracker Jacks to Blazer, from Dixie cup to Combo cap with the anchor, there is no mistaking the Chief.  Besides the anchors that we wear, the only thing that distinguishes a Chief in the Coast Guard is the Bravo uniform-  the GOLD.  
    All too often we look for an excuse not to wear it.  It’s too hot- it’s uncomfortable- it doesn’t fit (unfortunately this is true more often than it should be).  Take your jacket out and put it on.  Have it cleaned or buy a new one if necessary.
    You worked hard for that gold. Be proud to show it off whenever possible. Did you ever see two full ranks of CPOs standing in formation with their SDBs?  It is a sight to behold and says quite clearly that  “WE ARE THE CHIEFS MESS”.  
    Make sure those young Coast Guard men and women have an opportunity to see you in your Bravos.   Inspire them to strive for THE GOLD.