“A Wise Chief Once Said”

A young Ensign approaches the crusty ole’ Chief and asks him about the origin of the commissioned officer insignias…

“Well” replied the Chief, “The Insignias for the Navy are steeped in history and tradition. First we give you a gold bar representing that you are very valuable but also malleable!”

The Chief goes on,

“The silver bar also represents significant value, but is less malleable. Now when you make Lieutenant, your value doubles, hence the two silver bars.  As a Captain, you soar over the military masses, hence the eagle.”

Still the Chief goes on,

“As an Admiral you are obviously a star… Does that answer your question Ensign??”

To that which the young butter bar replies,

“Yes Chief… but what about Lieutenant Commander and Commander??”

So the Chief says,

“That  goes waaaay back into history, back to the Garden of Eden..."

"You see we’ve always covered our pricks with leaves!!!!”