There are many traditions in the United States Navy that have great significance for officers. One of them is connected with a white hat, one of the most iconic and famous symbols worn in the Navy. This tradition is called the burial of a nave white hat and related to the transition of a petty officer. It is a special way of saying goodbye to the white hat and previous rank.
The tradition of burial of a white hat represents the central values of US Navy: honorary debt and courage. It signifies and symbolizes the transition from first-class to chief petty officer. Through this action, officers pay homage to “their time and years of service in that hat” (Bland). It also tends to help them to stop thinking like an E-6, first-class petty officer, and get ready for new responsibilities. During the ceremony, an officer is welcome to say words of honor to his uniform that served him for a certain period of time. After the last farewell, a white hat is pushed into the depths of the sea in a grand manner. Therefore, this solemn moment is significant and emotional for every officer entering a new position.
In conclusion, it is necessary to mention that such kinds of traditions make up a great part of the whole culture of the US Navy. The burial of a navy white hat illustrates the paramount importance of the instance when officers promise to face further challenges and duties with proud courage. It also allows to remember and remark such a valuable stage of officers’ development and promotion, highlighting their professional growth. Consequently, every officer is eager to express their tribute to the tradition and perform this action of a farewell.
Reference
Bland, Catherine. (2016). USS Jackson CPO selects hold white hat burial at sea. DVIDS. Web.