Coast Guard Ancient Mariner

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Robert J. Papp Jr., the 13th Gold Ancient Mariner of the Coast Guard, presides over a change of watch ceremony as Master Chief Petty Officer Vobornik at prepares to relinquish the title of Silver Ancient Mariner to Master Chief Petty Officer Steven Hearn at Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown, Aug. 26, 2010. The Gold and Silver Ancient Mariner titles are honorary positions held by an officer, gold, and an enlisted member, silver, with over ten years of cumulative sea duty who have held the qualification of cutterman longer than any other officers and enlisted members. Coast Guard photo by Public Affairs Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Henise.