Why Is the Navy Chief's Anchor Made of Gold?
The U.S. Navy uses insignia and symbols to honor sailors who have earned various ranks. One of the most recognizable of these is the fouled anchor -- an anchor wrapped in its own chain, overlaid with the letters USN.
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Significance
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The fouled anchor is worn by chief petty officers (CPOs) in the Navy. The insignia is worn on the officer's hat and on the lapels of certain uniforms.
History
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The fouled anchor insignia was originally the insignia of Lord Howard of Effingham, the Lord Admiral of England in the late 1500s. The symbol was adopted by the British Navy and eventually became part of the U.S. Navy tradition.
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Meaning
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Every part of the fouled anchor insignia has a meaning. The emblem is made of gold to symbolize refinement by fire, as the CPO's abilities are refined and honed by every trial. Other parts of the design symbolize stability and brotherhood.
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References
- Photo Credit us navy granite image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
