From the Deckplates: A Chief's Guide to Naval Leadership for New Officers

Offers new naval officers real-world leadership advice and enlisted perspectives often absent from formal training. From the Deckplates provides new naval officers with the practical wisdom and guidance typically shared only in the Chief's Mess-the unwritten rules, human element, and real-world advice that technical manuals cannot capture. Drawing from 26 years of naval service as a Senior Chief, Don Sawyer has created a comprehensive guide that addresses the real challenges new officers face: managing divisions, working with Chiefs, navigating wardroom politics, earning warfare qualifications, and developing into effective leaders. The book covers the full spectrum of naval leadership from a Chief's perspective: wardroom dynamics, division structure and team building, communication strategies, crisis leadership, ethical decision-making, digital leadership, and career development. Each chapter includes practical examples, concentrated wisdom, and actionable advice providing the enlisted perspective. This book fills a critical gap in naval professional development literature, providing the authentic voice and practical wisdom that Chiefs share with junior officers-the guidance that makes the difference between struggling and thriving in naval leadership. AUTHOR: Donald R. Sawyer is a Senior Chief (retired) with 26 years of distinguished service in the United States Navy. Throughout his naval career, he served in various leadership capacities, from Data Systems Technician to Officer in Charge of the Type Commander Transient Personnel Unit. Since transitioning from active duty, Don has continued in senior leadership roles, including Director of Operations at SAIC and Operations Director at General Dynamics IT. He currently serves as a Senior System Analyst at Titanium Cobra Solutions, supporting naval systems integration. Don is currently completing his Doctor of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership and Development at Capella University. He also holds master's degrees in Management (Project Management) and Human Resources Management and Services, along with bachelor's degrees in Counseling Psychology and Secondary Education.