Responsibilities of a CPO and PO

Taken from an old RCN poster, which still applies today…

 

1. Discipline and comfort of men and women in ships and establishments are dependant to a great extent on the manner in which Chief Petty Officers and Petty Officers carry out their duties and maintain their positions. Owing to the influence that they exercise on the discipline, efficiency and morale of the navy as a whole, it is essential that the importance of their status be recognized by all officers, men and women.
2. Chief Petty Officers and Petty Officers are not promoted to these ranks solely as a result of seniority or on passing certain examinations. As Captains and Officers look to them for loyal support in maintaining the efficiency and the tradition of the Navy, and junior men and women look to them for direction and assistance, they should:
   1. set an example of loyalty and discipline; 
   2. accept the responsibilities of their positions;
   3. work at all times for the well-being and efficiency of the Navy as a whole; 
   4. exercise tact; and 
   5. obey the orders of their superiors with the same cheerfulness and alacrity with which they expect to be obeyed by their juniors.
3. It is the duty of Chief Petty Officers and Petty Officers to preserve order and regularity among the other men and women wherever they are. This responsibility rests upon them whether on duty or not.