Navy Friday Funny – The Power of the Almighty Chief Petty Officer

Each military branch of the United States has its own cultures, language, and traditions. In the Navy, the Chief Petty Officer serves a dual role as both a technical expert and as a leader; emphasis being more on leadership. There is always a sense of humor that comes from this culture. For the Navy, I find the more ingenious humor typically involves a CPO.

Enjoy this Navy Friday Funny!


As a crowded airliner was about to take-off, the peace was suddenly shattered by a five-year-old boy who picked that moment to throw a wild temper tantrum. No matter what his frustrated, embarrassed mother did to try to calm him down, the boy continued to scream furiously and kick the seats around him.

Suddenly, from the rear of the plane, an older man wearing the uniform of a United States Navy Master Chief began to slowly make his way up the aisle. Stopping the frustrated mother’s upraised hand, the white haired, courtly, soft-spoken Chief leaned down and, motioning toward his collar and his multiple rows of ribbons, whispered something into the boy’s ear.

Instantly, the boy calmed down, gently took his mother’s hand, and quietly fastened his seat belt. All the other passengers burst into spontaneous applause.

As the Chief slowly made his way back to his seat, one of the cabin attendants touched his sleeve.

“Excuse me, Chief,” she asked quietly. “Could I ask you what magic words you used on that little boy?”

The Chief smiled serenely and gently confided, “I showed him my anchors, my service stripes, and my battle ribbons. I then calmly explained to him that they entitled me to throw one passenger out of the plane.”