back a few years ago I began acting a LOT as Company officer quite regularly and consistantly, and I found wearing the "stem" was a "good thing" if I happened to screw up I could always say Geez, Chief, I must be getting a little low or sprung a leak, while pointing at the stem, or it could also be used to be less then that diplomatic :) .. when needed , unfortuantely being traditionally the 2nd busiest company in our city , it didn't take long for me to deal with my 1st combat commands, fatals, and pretty much you name it I've delt with it.,...:P