Master Diver Question

[CUBUSMC]

I have a question on the distinguishing mark or designation of "Master Diver". Being designated as a master diver did not mean that you were necessarily a Master Chief, correct? Seems like my father in law was a Master Diver for a long time, but I do not think he was a Master Chief for near as long. Trying to reconcile his ship history to his DD-214. Thanks in advance - Jeff

[Justin B.]

Two different uses of the word "master." Master Diver was a qualification that was separate from the sailor's rate, and existed before there were master chief petty officers. Navy Diver only became an actual rating about 10 years ago, before that qualified divers held various different rates.

 

Justin B.

[CUBUSMC]

Thanks Justin, that answers my question. Yes when he retired, he was a Master Chief Hull Technician. He use to do a lot of work on submarines. His early uniforms had the diver helmet with the M in the center and his retired uniform had the silver Master Diver Badge on the chest. Thanks - Jeff

[Justin B.]

Cool! That makes sense, as others on the board who "were there" can tell us, all the sleeve distinguishing marks were dropped when jumper uniforms were eliminated in 1975. The jumpers made a comeback, but not the distinguishing marks!

 

Justin B.

[KRIS FORD]

I was a Hull Technician myself.

 

You wanna rile him up, call him a TURD CHASER. (and tell him it's from a HT!)