United States Navy Dental Corps Chief Petty Officer Rank Insignia Patch E7

A  Chief Petty Officer is the first of the Navy's Chief Petty Officer ranks, and the first rank with the Chief Petty Officer's enhanced duties and benefits. Like Petty Officers all Chief Petty Officers have a rating, or job, and their full operational title is determined by their rating; a Chief Petty Officer specializing as a Gunner's Mate, for example, is known by the full title of Chief Gunner's Mate.

Chief Petty Officer is the first Navy rank that comes with vastly expanded powers and responsibilities over those of that below it. In addition to their rating's duties, a Chief Petty Officer is responsible for training junior officers and leading his division of sailors and petty officers.

In addition to enhanced responsibilities, Chief Petty Officers enjoy a wide variety of on-duty benefits far above anything received by Petty Officers or enlisted sailors. As well as a shipboard uniform similar to that of a commissioned officer, Chief Petty Officers enjoy private living quarters and access to the Chief's Mess, known in informal Navy slang as the "goat locker", which is in reference to ship's livestock that used to be kept in the Chief's quarters for safekeeping. The Chief's quarters are exclusive and off-limits to all sailors, including officers, unless given specific invitation.

The Dental Corps of the United States Navy consists of naval officers who have a doctorate in either dental surgery (DDS) or dental medicine (DMD) and who practice dentistry for Sailors and Marines to ensure optimal oral health.

The U.S. Navy Dental Corps was established by an Act of Congress in 1912. Its membership consists of dental officers of the Navy and the United States Navy Reserve. The primary mission of the Corps is to prevent or remedy dental conditions that may interfere with the performance of duty by members of the active naval forces. In overseas locations, they sometimes also treat dependent family members.

Original Fabric Sew On Insignia patch with Khaki or Desert Tan soft fabric backing and silblack embroidery.