pettyofficermeans

08/11/2025

What I’m Teaching My Sailors This Week: How to Look Like You Belong in the Next Rank

Too many Sailors wait for the collar device before they start acting like they earned it. Promotion isn’t a reward for doing the bare minimum. It’s proof you’ve been doing the job already.

Here’s how you signal you’re ready:

Show up prepared to meetings, watches, briefs, etc. Know your stuff before you walk in.

Communicate like a leader: clear, concise, and no “ummm” every other word.

Solve problems before they hit your Chief’s inbox or desk. Make yourself the person people trust to handle things.

Carry yourself with confidence: not arrogance, but presence.

⚓️ Act like the next rank is already yours, and people will start seeing you in it.

🗣 What’s one thing you do to stand out as a leader? Drop it below 👇

07/31/2025

New read. Same mission: Lead better.

I am starting Surf When You Can by CAPT Brett Crozier. This is someone who wasn’t just a viral name. He was actually my XO back in the day.

He led with backbone and heart then. I’m betting this book brings the same energy: loyalty, life lessons, and leadership that puts people first, even when it costs you.

I am excited to make my way through this book.

Always learning.
Always leading.
Always Sailor first.

07/27/2025

Leadership can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be hard.

- Create cohesion instead of divide.

- Be fair, consistent, transparent, and empathetic.

- Understand that your job is to serve your Sailors, not the other way around.

- Hold your Sailors accountable, regardless of how big or how small. That doesn’t mean just punishment; praise them when they deserve it as well.

- Allow them to learn from their mistakes instead of creating fear for them to make decisions.

- Take ownership when things don’t go right instead of looking to blame others.

07/22/2025

This week, I’m back in student mode, diving deep into Reserve Pay and Personnel Management. Because even Chiefs need refreshers. 😅

It’s easy to get frustrated with pay issues or feel lost navigating the admin maze. However, when we understand how the system works, we’re better equipped to advocate for our Sailors AND ourselves.

No, it’s not the most glamorous topic (no one’s throwing parades for learning about DJMS or IDTs), but this knowledge is POWER and it directly impacts readiness, retention, and real-life money in your pocket.

If you’re a Navy Reservist or a Sailor supporting them, don’t sleep on how important this stuff is. Ask the questions. Take the classes. Be the person who knows where to find the answer or at least how to get to the right office without getting passed around like a hot potato. 🥔

💬 Drop a 👏 if you've ever been frustrated with your LES.

07/20/2025

🧼 Just got a major upgrade for less thanks to a military discount many people don’t think about.

We needed a new washing machine. After researching models at The Home Depot and Lowe’s, we had our eyes on one in particular. Both stores were offering the standard 10% military discount. We were ready to buy.

Then I paused and asked myself, “What if the manufacturer offers a military discount too?”

💡 Spoiler alert: They did. And it saved us over $350.

Instead of getting the smaller washer from the big-box stores, we ended up with a larger, upgraded model and still paid less. That included delivery, installation, AND haul-away service. It was all because I took the time to check the manufacturer’s military discount program directly.

It’s so easy to assume we’re getting the best deal just because we’re using a military discount at a major retailer. But sometimes? Digging one layer deeper can mean bigger savings and better results.

This is your reminder:
🎖 Before you hit “buy,” check with the brand itself.
🎖 Look beyond the big names.
🎖 Stack your benefits smartly.

Whether you’re PCS-ing, upgrading appliances, or just tired of a washer that sounds like a jet engine at spin cycle, do yourself (and your wallet) a favor: ask about military discounts in all the places. You might be surprised where it pays off.

📦 New washer, delivered today.
💸 $350+ in savings.
😎 Feeling like a savvy Navy Chief.

Every dollar counts, especially for military families.

—

🔖 Save this post for your next big purchase.
💬 Tag a fellow service member who loves a good discount.

07/18/2025

I am back, better than ever, and ready to help YOU! I have learned that I truly care about Sailors and mentorship. Therefore, I will be using this page for that purpose.

👋 I'm Chief Hirsch!

This page isn’t about showing off rank. It’s about showing up for Sailors.
Whether you’re an E-2 trying to figure out evals or a newly frocked FCPO who’s now leading people, this page is for YOU.

🧭 Leadership | 📈 Mentorship | 💬 Real Talk
Drop a comment or DM “mentor” if you want to connect.

10/09/2023

A walk of celebration... the completion of a long and tiring Chief season made to get us ready for what we will encounter in our next steps... as Navy Chiefs. I am humbled and proud to be a part of the Mess.

09/29/2023

Tried. Tested. Accepted.

Season may be over finally, but the next chapter as a Chief Petty Officer is just beginning.

Thankful to have this man beside me through it all.

Navy Chief. Navy Pride.

07/26/2023

Maximize Space and Minimize Stress with These Packing Tips Photo by Vlada Karpovich via Pexels Packing for a trip can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what to bring or how to pack efficiently. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, a well-packed suitcase can make your trip much more enjoyable. Here I will discuss 9 convenient tips on how to pack efficiently and effectively for your next trip....

Maximize Space and Minimize Stress with These Packing Tips Photo by Vlada Karpovich via Pexels  Packing for a trip can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what to bring …

07/16/2023

Image from Unsplash Traveling can be an enriching and transformative experience, but if you’re not diligent, it can get expensive. With the right tips and travel hacks, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses and make your adventures more affordable. In this article, I will uncover some valuable secrets for cheap travel that will help travelers of all ages save money and explore the world on a budget....

Image from Unsplash Traveling can be an enriching and transformative experience, but if you’re not diligent, it can get expensive. With the right tips and travel hacks, you can significantly r…

06/26/2023

Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash Traveling is an exhilarating experience that allows us to explore new places, immerse ourselves in different cultures, and create lasting memories. One of the best ways to capture and relive those incredible moments is through travel photography. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you improve your travel photography skills and ensure you capture your adventures in the best possible way....

Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash Traveling is an exhilarating experience that allows us to explore new places, immerse ourselves in different cultures, and create lasting memories. One of the …

06/13/2023

Looking for a stylish and durable travel companion? Read this honest review of the Rollink Flex Vega Cabin Suitcase's design and functionality.

Looking for a stylish and durable travel companion? Read this review of the Rollink Flex Vega Cabin Fully Collapsible Suitcase, complete with pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.