By Melinda Larson, NSAM Public Affairs

The Naval Support Activity Monterey (NSAM) peacock has a name thanks to the votes of 103 people who selected from a list of 16 names, with 40 original names being added as write-ins. From Foghorn Leghorn to Commodore Sloat, Peacock McPeacockface to Professor Plum, the people let their voices be heard. 

"Admiral Chester Nimitz it is," said NSAM Commanding Officer Capt. Kevin Bertelsen. "Let's call him Chester for short."

Admiral Chester Nimitz received the highest number of votes, just edging out "Admiral Hornblower," "Admiral," and "Birdie McBirdface," all of which were very popular. 

"The response on social media to our call for a proper name was phenomenal," said Vicki Taber, Installation Environmental Program Director. "I'm happy he now has an official name." 

Taber has been calling the nameless bird "Bert," in honor of the installation commanding officer, while Chester acclimated to NSAM. She keeps weekly tabs on Chester, who can often be seen in the La Novia terrace area, just outside the La Novia Room.

"But you never know where Chester might be seen next strolling the grounds of Naval Support Activity Monterey," Taber said.

Chester was adopted late last year through the Monterey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. "Peacocks have long been associated with the Naval Postgraduate School and NSAM. Chester is a welcome addition to this amazing installation," Bertelsen added. "And now he has a proper name."

Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz, the tenth Chief of Naval Operations from Dec. 15, 1945–Dec. 15, 1947, was one of the signatories of the Japanese surrender documents on board USS Missouri on Sept. 2, 1945. He signed for the United States as General Douglas MacArthur signed for the United Nations.

Although not native to North America, this species of peafowl is known to have only a minimal impact on native animals and plants. No other exotic birds will be introduced to the base and there is no plan to introduce peahens.