Posted on Dec 12, 2025
When cross assigned to a unit that is a surface warfare community, how do I go about earning the Surface Warfare Pin?
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Hello all, I am currently cross assigned to a unit that is a surface warfare community. How do I go about earning the pin and is it possible in the reserves since I wont be there much as I drill locally. Thanks!
Posted 6 d ago
Responses: 2
I would say to start asking within your Naval Reserve unit...but a Quick Google Search result shows:
Key Steps for a Reserve YN:
Get Assigned to a Warfare-Qualified Unit: The most crucial step is finding an assignment (e.g., on a ship, with a specific unit like NECC, or a seafaring command) that actively supports and qualifies personnel for warfare pins.
Join the Warfare Program: Once assigned, volunteer or enroll in the command's Surface Warfare program, often managed by the ship's training department.
Complete PQS: Work through the Performance Qualification Standards (PQS) for your rating (YN) and general shipboard requirements, learning various stations, engineering fundamentals, damage control, and watchstanding.
Get Sign-Offs: Have experienced personnel sign off on your PQS book as you demonstrate proficiency in each area.
Pass the Boards: You'll face multiple boards, starting with division officers, then department heads, and finally a culminating board with the Commanding Officer (CO) and Executive Officer (XO), answering detailed questions.
Qualify: Upon successfully completing the final board, you'll be authorized to wear the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) pin.
Important Considerations for Reservists:
Assignment is Key: Your primary opportunity lies in being assigned to a sea-going command or a unit with an active SW/ESWS program.
Time & Commitment: Earning the pin requires significant time and dedication, often months of study and on-the-job training, which can be challenging but achievable with focused ADT or deployments.
YN Role: As YNs serve in various domains, you must qualify based on your assigned command's warfare type, but the surface warfare path is a classic route for this rating
Key Steps for a Reserve YN:
Get Assigned to a Warfare-Qualified Unit: The most crucial step is finding an assignment (e.g., on a ship, with a specific unit like NECC, or a seafaring command) that actively supports and qualifies personnel for warfare pins.
Join the Warfare Program: Once assigned, volunteer or enroll in the command's Surface Warfare program, often managed by the ship's training department.
Complete PQS: Work through the Performance Qualification Standards (PQS) for your rating (YN) and general shipboard requirements, learning various stations, engineering fundamentals, damage control, and watchstanding.
Get Sign-Offs: Have experienced personnel sign off on your PQS book as you demonstrate proficiency in each area.
Pass the Boards: You'll face multiple boards, starting with division officers, then department heads, and finally a culminating board with the Commanding Officer (CO) and Executive Officer (XO), answering detailed questions.
Qualify: Upon successfully completing the final board, you'll be authorized to wear the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) pin.
Important Considerations for Reservists:
Assignment is Key: Your primary opportunity lies in being assigned to a sea-going command or a unit with an active SW/ESWS program.
Time & Commitment: Earning the pin requires significant time and dedication, often months of study and on-the-job training, which can be challenging but achievable with focused ADT or deployments.
YN Role: As YNs serve in various domains, you must qualify based on your assigned command's warfare type, but the surface warfare path is a classic route for this rating
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CPT Lawrence Cable
If you are assigned to a ship, percentage of pinned sailors is a big deal for the Captains and you will be pushed to get pinned. My son pinned Surface and Air Warfare while serving on the Bonhomme Richard and the Essex. He is presently working on his Expeditionary Warfare Pin. All are a process to get that takes time and study. Check with your training NCO.
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