Washington (Aug. 20) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Vincent W. Patton. Master Chief Patton became the Eighth Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard on May 22, 1998. He is the principal advisor to the Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral James Loy, and his directorates. Master Chief Patton's primary focus is on quality of life issues, career development, work environment and personnel matters affecting over 36,000 active duty and reserve enlisted personnel. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PHOTO