The three silver stars above the fouled anchor depict the leadership and service of the Master Chief Petty Officers of the Navy (MCPON) – past, present and future and honor the ship's Sponsor.

The stars are also arranged in the same manner about the anchor as the international navigational symbol for lights and shapes about the mast; signifying a vessel engaged in mine clearance operations.

There are 84 links in the fouled anchor chain, one for each plank owner, the ship's sponsor, and the Matron of Honor.

The command senior chief billet was established and provided guidance and advocacy for enlisted sailors assigned to the ship.

However, records show that CMDCM(AW/SW) Jim Cahill and HMCS(SW/FMF) Chad Smith from Crew Conflict were the first command-appointed senior enlisted leaders on board USS Chief (MCM-14).