Naval History and Heritage Command
White Combination Cap of MCPON Delbert Black
Title: Combination Cap, MCPON Delbert Black
Accession #: NHHC 1973-386-DU
Circa: 1960's
Size: 11"d x 4"h
Medium: Metal, Fabric, Celluloid
Location: Headquarters Artifact Collection, Naval History and Heritage Command
One senior enlisted combination cap with Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy insignia. Black visor and white hat cover. Attached black elastic hat band with gold fouled anchor, silver "U.S.N" and three silver stars around top of fouled anchor. Black patent leather chin strap attached to hat with buttons. Interior of cap contains a worn brown leather sweatband with "BANCROFT" stamped. Black plastic interior cap frame. Clear plastic inner crown liner and celluloid card window with card included. Card reads "DELBERT D. BLACK". Manufacturer's information on plastic liner.
MCPON Black was the first appointed Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy in 1967. After his appointment, he knew he needed an insignia to identify his ranking as the senior enlisted man in the Navy. His wife suggested adding a third star to the insignia of the Master Chief Petty Officer. The Uniform Board agreed with the recommendation and the MCPON insignia was approved.
