Goat Locker - Possible Origins of The Term

Possible Origins of The Term

• The term takes its name from the slang term "old goat," and is a recognition that CPOs are generally the oldest individuals aboard a navy ship.
• In early sailing years, there was no refrigeration available, so livestock would travel on ships, providing the crew fresh milk and eggs. To keep the supply of milk safe and available, the goat was kept in the Chief Petty Officers quarters. This is believed to be the source of the old Navy term, "Goat Locker."
• Entertainment on liberty took many forms, mostly depending on the coast and opportunity. One incident which became tradition was at a Navy-Army football game. In early sailing years, livestock would travel on ships, providing the crew fresh milk, meats, and eggs, as well as serving as ships' mascots. One pet, a goat named El Cid (meaning Chief) was the mascot aboard the USS New York. When its crew attended the fourth Army–Navy Game in 1893, they took El Cid to the game, which resulted in the West Pointers losing. El Cid (The Chief) was offered shore duty at Annapolis and became the Navy's mascot. This is believed to be the source of the old Navy term, "Goat Locker."