The CPO interprets what the O-gangers want done into what CAN be done and tells the 1st class. The 1st class determines how to do it and picks the best 2nd class for the job. The 2nd class (an E-5, a sergeant of one sort or another to the ground pounder and fly-boy branches) grabs up a bunch of junior pukes and gets the job done. Isn't it the Sergeants that do all the real work throughout the military? I've worked with Marine personnel, Army personnel and Air Force personnel and it always seemed that way to me.

The Navy is full of history, you just don't hear as much about it as you do the other branches, because generally nobody else is there to see it. Tell that 1st class boats "Go Navy" from a fellow swabby. I don't suppose he's into old rifles, is he?
"Post a man with a rifle in the sail, all hands prepare to repel boarders."