October 2019 The November 2019 Mustang Lariat highlights key updates within the Limited Duty Officer (LDO) and Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) communities. Key topics include:
Leadership Transition: Mr. Mitch Allen, a key figure in LDO/CWO policy and sustainability, departs, succeeded by Ms. Dawn Coleman.
LDO/CWO Academy Change: CDR Michael Prince takes over as director, following CDR Zeverick Butts’ tenure, impacting over 800 new officers.
Revised Competitive Categories (RCC) Implementation: A decade in development, RCC begins in 2020, separating LDOs and CWOs into specific categories for promotions.
Declining LDO/CWO Acceptance Rates: An increasing number of selected sailors are declining commissions, prompting analysis to reverse the trend.
Designator Updates: The 6230 Submarine Engineer designator faces billet shortages, while a proposed merger of 6160 and 6180 awaits final approval.
Fitness Standards Enforcement: LDO/CWO Academy to strictly enforce Body Composition Assessments (BCA), with failures resulting in course non-completion.
Application Process & Errors: Over 2,000 applications processed, with common errors including missing endorsements, incorrect education details, and citizenship documentation issues.
WO1 Program Success: The first eight WO1 officers in decades graduate, enhancing the Navy’s technical expertise with younger, highly skilled officers.
Promotion Board Readiness: Officers are urged to review records, ensure official photographs are up-to-date, and prepare for upcoming boards.
Lateral Transfer Board Updates: Guidance provided on eligibility and restrictions for LDO lateral transfers and redesignations.
The newsletter reinforces mentorship, policy changes, and professional development while addressing challenges and celebrating community achievements.
