Saturday, January 9, 2010

Ms. Gigi Craig - Honorary Master Chief Petty Officer




Shipmates,

We had the awesome opportunity last night as we begin to bid farewell to an awesome Shipmate. Gigi Craig who has been with Kings Dominion for (it’s OK Gigi, I would divulge exactly how long!) at least 12 years is starting a new chapter in her life. Gigi for those who do not know, is the Kings Dominion Corporate Sales rep and more importantly to us, the Military Affiliation Representative.

Gigi came up with the idea about 11 years ago to have Kings Dominion sponsor and host a CPO day during the Chief Petty Officers Induction and the event has developed into an event along the east coast in which approximately 3500 Chiefs and family members have begun to take part in. This past year, there were 5 retired MCPON’s and current MCPON Rick West in attendance as well as 10 Fleet or Force Master Chief’s and over 40 Command Master Chief’s in which the CPO selectees were able to listen to the wisdom, experience and advice prior to their entering the Mess. “Real” Chiefs were also able to listen to the Navy’s Senior Enlisted and unanimously, they stated they wished they had something like this when they were selected.

Gigi was presented and honored as a Honorary Chief Petty Officer back in 2000 and based on what she has meant to the Chief’s Mess and done for the Sailors and their families, in coordination with the MCPON, Gigi was presented, pinned and celebrated as an Honorary Master Chief Petty Officer during a CMC/spouse social event Friday night at Oceana’s CNATTU ceremonial hangar bay.

Gigi, we’re all thankful and proud of what you’ve meant to the Chief’s Mess and wish you favorable winds and following seas during your transition. ---Fleet sends