Who advises and assists the Supply Officer in accomplishing the Supply Department's functions?

• A. Executive Officer
• B. Commanding Officer
• C. Assistant Supply Officer
• D. CPO Mess Division

Answer: (C)

The person who advises and assists the Supply Officer in accomplishing the Supply Department's functions is the Assistant Supply Officer. As the deputy to the Supply Officer, the ASO handles the day-to-day management of supply operations, oversees division chiefs, reviews requisitions, maintains accountability for issues and receipts, and coordinates with other ship departments. This role directly supports the Supply Officer in implementing procedures, maintaining material readiness, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The Executive Officer oversees the whole ship’s organization and may interface with the Supply Department, but the specialized day-to-day assistance comes from the Assistant Supply Officer. The Commanding Officer is the ship’s commanding authority, not the Supply Department’s assistant. The CPO Mess Division deals with enlisted mess matters, not supply operations.