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All Chief Warrant Officers and Limited Duty Officers have passed through the halls of the “Mustang University” in its various forms throughout the years—whether in Pensacola, FL, or more recently in Newport, RI. Today, there is a robust collection of Mustang history and memorabilia known as “Mustang Alley.” Within Mustang Alley is the Mustang Alley Museum. This museum was initially created in October of 1993 by then Director, CDR Roland H. Jaeh. Thirty years later, the museum was refurbished and rededicated. The following history document represents the culmination of the history represented within Mustang Alley.
If you would like to donate items to the museum or provide input, please reach out to the Deputy Director. Hooyah, history!
The history of Warrant Officers, Chief Warrant Officers, and Limited Duty Officers (LDOs) dates back centuries, tracing their roots to the earliest naval traditions. Long before the ranks of Captain and Lieutenant were established, Warrant Officers held command over ships. In the 1200s, the title of Boatswain, derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "Batsuen," emerged as one of the first official positions aboard naval vessels. As maritime operations grew more complex, additional specialized roles such as the Sailing Master were created to navigate and tactically maneuver ships. By the 1500s, larger ships required greater oversight, leading to the appointment of Commissioned Army Officers as ship Captains. While these officers acted on behalf of the state, Warrant Officers remained integral in managing the ship and its crew, laying the foundation for the professional enlisted-to-officer transition that persists today.
The official birth of the U.S. Navy occurred on October 30, 1775, with the establishment of the Continental Navy. Early naval ranks consisted of Captains, Lieutenants, Warrant Officers, and Seamen. Warrant Officers specialized in critical technical areas such as navigation, gunnery, and ship maintenance, ensuring operational excellence. On December 23, 1775, John Berriman, a Boatswain assigned to the USS Andrea Doria, became the first appointed Warrant Officer, marking the inception of this esteemed community.
Throughout American naval history, Warrant Officers and LDOs have played significant roles in shaping the fleet. From commanding the USS Constitution to designing national symbols like the 1818 U.S. Flag, these officers have demonstrated leadership, ingenuity, and dedication. During the War of 1812, Warrant Officer Samuel Hambleton inspired the iconic battle cry, "Don’t Give Up the Ship," immortalizing the resilience of naval forces. Similarly, Warrant Officer Floyd Bennett earned the Medal of Honor in 1926 for his pioneering Arctic flight.
During World War II, the demand for officers led to temporary battlefield commissions, giving rise to the term "Mustang Officer," symbolizing those who had risen through the enlisted ranks. This era saw numerous Warrant Officers and LDOs earning high honors, including Warrant Officer Donald Ross, who received the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the attack on Pearl Harbor. In 1948, the Limited Duty Officer program was formally established, providing a permanent pathway for skilled enlisted personnel to become commissioned officers.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed further professionalization of the Mustang community. The Chief Warrant Officer ranks expanded, and in 1985, Congress authorized LDOs to advance to the rank of Captain. In 2002, the Navy implemented the CWO5 rank, allowing greater career progression. The Mustang Academy, first established in the 1960s, continues to develop new generations of LDOs and CWOs, ensuring that the legacy of technical expertise and leadership endures.
The Mustang community has consistently broken barriers. In 1944, Warrant Officer Charles B. Lear became the first African American Mustang Officer. Decades later, CAPT Heather Walton became the first female Silver Eagle, the most senior LDO, in 2020. Rear Admiral Tracy L. Hines made history in 2022 as the first Flag Officer commissioned through the LDO program.
From the early days of the Continental Navy to modern naval operations, Mustang Officers have remained indispensable to mission success. Their journey—from enlisted service to officer leadership—embodies the core values of the U.S. Navy: Honor, Courage, and Commitment. The tradition of Warrant Officers, Chief Warrant Officers, and Limited Duty Officers is one of perseverance, expertise, and unwavering service to the fleet and nation.