By the Navy News Service
NSL UPDATE 03-11-2002
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- When Master Chief Petty Officer Terry D.
Scott (SS/AW) answered a telephone call March 1, the caller was none other than
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Vern Clark, who was calling Scott to congratulate
him on being named the 10th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON).
During his first interview as MCPON-to-be, Scott told a Navy/Marine Corps News
team in Bahrain the story of that recent phone call, and his eagerness to assume
his new duties April 22. He is currently the CNO-directed command master chief
for Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet.
"The phone rings, I pick it up, and said hello -- and the voice on the other end
of the line said, 'Is this Master Chief Scott?'" Scott said, describing the call
from the CNO. Adm. Clark who then informed him of his selection.
Being chosen to serve as the 10th MCPON is the beginning of some great changes
for both Scott and for the Navy. "Some of the things we're going to be seeing in
the future are incredible," Scott said. "[For example] Task Force EXCEL, and new
ways to train and educate Sailors -- I'm really excited about getting in and
rolling up my sleeves and start working on those issues."
Scott said that following in the footsteps of nine other MCPONs is something
that he never expected, or planned for; but he is up to and ready for the
challenge that awaits him.
"Those guys are legends, and I've never though of myself this way; but here's my
opportunity," he said. "I do believe I am up for the challenge; but at the same
time, I'm humbled by the selection as well."
Scott believes the role of the MCPON is to represent every Sailor, while working
to improve their quality of life. As a 25-year Navy veteran with 15 deployments
behind him, Scott said he understands those needs and can get the job done.
ED NOTE: FORCM Terry D. Scott, USN is a submariner, servings as COB in
JACKSONVILLE and ship's company in JAMES MADISON and JOHN ADAMS as well as
SUBRON FOURTEEN and FBMSTC Charleston.