[Ronin]

This guy makes it to Chief Petty Officer and then turns around and takes an LDO commission to become an Ensign?

And he wonders why people think he’s gay?

[GATOR NAVY]

I’ve known a few. Most are good guys. One good buddy of mine who made CPO with me is now an O-5. Not too many LDOs at that level.

[fredhead]

I spent 20 years in the Navy as an electronics tech....worked for both regular officers (college grads) and mustangs (LDO’s). Most of the regular officers don't know “sh#t from shinola”, the LDO’s had been there and knew what they were talking about. As far as respect, and LDO Ensign's opinion maybe carries about a much weight as a regular Lieutenant Commander.

[ryan71]

“This guy makes it to Chief Petty Officer and then turns around and takes an LDO commission to become an Ensign?”

“And he wonders why people think he’s gay?”

The best officer I knew in the Navy was an LDO ensign, formerly a Master Chief EW. His station during General Quarters was Tactical Actions Officer (TAO). He was responsible for fighting the ship. Aboard an aircraft carrier filled with senior officers, this ensign was chosen to be TAO.

[ryan71]

And he retired as a Commander.