Petty officer facts for kids
A petty officer is a special kind of leader in the navies of many countries. They are like team leaders who help guide other sailors. In the United States Navy, petty officers have different levels of responsibility, from E-4 to E-9. The highest levels, E-7 to E-9, are called Chief, Senior Chief, or Master Chief Petty Officers.
Petty officers are in charge of the sailors who work with them. They get their instructions from officers and then make sure the work gets done. Often, petty officers lead newer sailors or those with lower ranks.
Becoming a Petty Officer
In the United States Navy, sailors can become petty officers by working hard. They take a special test and are checked on how well they do their job each year. If they perform well enough, they can move up to the next rank. This helps them gain more responsibility and leadership roles.
Petty Officer Badges
Petty officers wear a special badge to show their rank. This badge helps everyone know their level of leadership. In the United States, sailors have been wearing these special petty officer badges since 1841.
Images for kids
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A Royal Navy boatswain's mate in 1820.
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Relative Ranks in the Royal Navy, c1810
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Five United States Navy Reserve petty officers in Service Dress Uniform. From left to right: HM1, AT1, HM1, HM1, AT1.
