Month: January 2024

Source: United States Navy

Good morning, everyone! It is wonderful to be back onboard USS Harry S Truman (CVN 75)—after my last visit in March of 2022 while she was deployed to the Mediterranean Sea—and now for the Second Fleet and Joint Forces Command Norfolk Change of Command Ceremony.

We’re here today not just to witness a change of command, but to celebrate a legacy of service and to embrace a future of unwavering resolve.

Thank you, Vice Admiral Dwyer, for your service to our country and our Navy, and for your leadership of this critical command for the past two and a half years.

Vice Admiral Perry, the challenges faced by this fleet should be no stranger to you—after all, you were leading operations for U.S. Fleet Forces Command when we re-established Second Fleet in 2018.

General Cavoli Admiral Caudle, General Badia,  and Admiral Bauer, thank you for joining us today.

Admiral Chris Grady, then the U.S. Fleet Forces Commander, noted in 2018 when we re-established Second Fleet that “the days of competition at sea and challenges to our maritime superiority have returned.”

Well, current operations show not much has changed—and yet everything has. Five and a half years ago, in August 2018, Russia had not yet begun their second illegal war of aggression in an all-out invasion of Ukraine.

The Houthis—an Iranian proxy group in Yemen—had not yet ramped up their aggressive campaign in the Red Sea to the unprecedented levels we see today, posing a major threat to international commercial shipping.

When Vice Admiral Dwyer took command of Second Fleet in August 2021, all of that still lay in the future.

But even as we gather here this afternoon, our Sailors, ships, aircraft, and submarines trained by Second Fleet operate up and down the Eastern Seaboard, in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Red Sea.

The largest instrument of American naval power and the world’s most advanced aircraft carrier—USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78)—has been on her first operational deployment for the past eight months.

Most recently, she was steaming in the Eastern Mediterranean, helping ensure the conflict between Israel and Hamas does not erupt into a larger regional conflagration. Another carrier trained by Second Fleet, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), is operating in the Red Sea as part of the same mission.

Their escorts, including USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), USS Carney (DDG 64), USS Laboon (DDG 58), USS Mason (DDG 87), and USS Gravely (DDG 107) have been protecting shipping from attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen throughout their respective deployments.

These warships are successful in their missions—protecting American interests, reassuring our allies, and deterring our adversaries—because of the training they received and the operational prowess they developed here at home, led by Second Fleet.

Of course, today isn’t just about Second Fleet. As others have said, Joint Force Command Norfolk is responsible for ensuring the protection of the trans-Atlantic link and the Arctic. It is often said that JFC Norfolk represents the embodiment of transatlantic security – and I could not agree more. 

As the Secretary of the Navy I can assure you that the Department of the Navy is fully committed to doing our part to support the ongoing expansion of the Joint Force Command Norfolk headquarters. 

As the host nation for JFC Norfolk we are working diligently to expedite the resourcing of these new requirements and to partner with NATO to provide new facilities for JFC Norfolk at the earliest possible date.

The U.S. deeply appreciates the contributions that JFC Norfolk makes to ensuring security and prosperity across the Alliance. 

NATO today is as important as it has ever been—and must continue to adapt to a more dangerous world. 

As we’ve seen in Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, President Putin is challenging the most basic tenets of the Alliance’s shared values, that the borders of Europe cannot be redrawn with force, that international law matters, that people and nations can make their own decisions about their future. 

And it’s up to Congress to pass legislation in the coming days to enable us to continue to support our Ukrainian partners in that fight.

The continued development of JFC Norfolk in the face of an evolving strategic situation and continued Russian aggression is essential to underwrite the peace, security and prosperity that has been the hallmark of the transatlantic relationship for so many decades.

Before I close, I’d like to spend a few moments to thank our most important guests present today: the families of both Admiral Perry and Admiral Dwyer.

The strong foundation our families provide at home enables us as service members to go to sea with confidence and conviction—and it is your strength, love, and determination that make us resilient—resilient enough to endure the long, difficult, and dangerous days away and far from home.

From the Perry family, we’re welcoming today:

His three daughters: the eldest, Maddie; the middle, Elle—who is a 2^nd Class Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy; and the youngest, Georgia.

His parents, Albert and Marcia. Albert, thank you for your service to our country—I know you can attest to the challenge and reward of command. 

Congratulations on still holding the record for shortest fast-attack overhaul during your time in command of USS Spadefish (SSN 668)—if you have any tips for our current commanding officers, I’m all ears! And his in-laws, Terry and Betsy. But most importantly, we must thank JoAnne for her support of her husband over the past thirty-plus years. I think that he would agree—and Betty would say the same of me—that he would not be here, taking command, today if it were not for you and your unwavering commitment to him, your family, and the Navy. 

From the Dwyer family, I’d like to recognize: His son, Thomas, and his wife, Camille, who are expecting their first child later this year—Admiral, be ready, because grandchildren change everything. His daughter, Kennedy, and her wife, Peyton. His youngest daughter, Rachel. And last, but certainly most important, his wife Christina. Christina, I know your love and support has been incredibly important to Admiral Dwyer during his career.  Thank you for sharing him with our Navy and our Nation, and for your continued advocacy for our service members and their mental health. Our Fleet is better off because of your efforts.

To both of your families, thank you. The support, love, sacrifices, and contributions you have made over the course of your son, husband, and father’s careers has been integral to their success and to the strength and security of our country.

The world has indeed changed in ways none of us could ever have suspected in the past two and a half years—and in the more than thirty years of both of your careers—and it will continue to change in the near future.

Preparing our Fleet to operate in an uncertain world, defending American and partner interests and our way of life is a monumental undertaking—and it never stops.

Every ship, every submarine, every aircraft that deploys from Second Fleet leaves for the critical juncture where training meets operations. 

Maintaining a world-class and deployable Navy is not something that can be created overnight when crisis develops.

It’s the work of every leader here to ensure that our fleet and our force is ready for whatever the future brings.

Vice Admiral Perry, you have our full faith and confidence that you, your Sailors, and our NATO partners will continue to deliver the forces needed to confront the challenges ahead of us, just as Vice Admiral Dwyer has for the past two and a half years. 

All of us here today are looking forward to your success.

Again, it is a pleasure to be with you all for this afternoon’s ceremony. May God continue to grant our Nation, our allies, and our partners fair winds and following seas.  Thank you.
 

Source: United States Navy

“When Secretary Austin directed us to implement the recommendations of the Naming Commission, he instructed us to give proud new names – names that echo with honor, patriotism, and history; names that will inspire generations of service members to defend our democracy and our Constitution.” said Secretary Del Toro.

One of the first assets renamed was Maury Hall, an academic building at the United States Naval Academy, which was named after Matthew Fontaine Maury, considered the father of naval oceanography who joined the Confederacy.

In February 2023, Secretary Del Toro renamed the building Carter Hall, after former President Jimmy Carter, who graduated from the Naval Academy in 1946, and who was the only president to attend the service academy.

In addition to Carter Hall, other installations and platforms renamed included:

Home of the U.S. Naval Academy’s superintendent, Buchanan House was renamed Farragut House to honor Union Navy Admiral David Glasgow Farragut, a Civil War hero who became the first American naval officer to be appointed to the rank of rear admiral in 1862.

Maury Oceanographic Library was renamed to Dr. Walter H. Munk Oceanographic Library at Stennis Space Center. Dr. Munk was an American physical oceanographer, who was one of the first scientists to bring statistical methods to the analysis of oceanographic data. His work won awards including the National Medal of Science, the Kyoto Prize, and induction to the French Legion of Honor.

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville was renamed to USS Robert Smalls (CG 62). Robert Smalls was born into slavery in South Carolina. A skilled sailor and was an expert navigator of southern coasts, Smalls was conscripted in 1862 to serve as pilot of the Confederate steamer Planter at Charleston. He executed a daring escape out of the heavily fortified Charleston harbor with his family, other enslaved people, and valuable military cargo onboard, and successfully surrendered Planter to the U.S. Navy.

Pathfinder-class Oceanographic Survey ship USNS Maury was renamed USNS Marie Tharp (T-AGS 66). This renaming honors Marie Tharp, a pioneering geologist and oceanographic cartographer who created the first scientific maps of the Atlantic Ocean floor and shaped our understanding of plate tectonics and continental drift. 

In addition to platforms and building, the Department of the Navy renamed 14 streets across multiple naval installations.

Source: United States Navy

The intent is to provide an interim progress review to Secretary Del Toro within 45 days.

The purpose of the review is to provide an assessment of national and local causes of shipbuilding challenges, as well as recommended actions for achieving a healthier U.S. shipbuilding industrial base that provides combat capabilities that our warfighters need, on a schedule that is relevant.

“I remain concerned with the lingering effects of post-pandemic conditions on our shipbuilders and their suppliers that continue to affect our shipbuilding programs, particularly our Columbia Class Ballistic Missile Submarines and Constellation Class Frigate,” said Secretary Del Toro. “The Department of the Navy has a strategic imperative requiring a whole-of-government effort to rebuild our nation’s comprehensive maritime power – a new Maritime Statecraft in which the Navy plays a vital role. The American public should know that the Department of the Navy is committed to developing, delivering, and sustaining the finest warfighting capability to our Sailors and Marines. We will continue to work with industry and all other stakeholders to strengthen our national shipbuilding capacity, both naval and commercial.”

Source: United States Navy

Esteemed guests included the Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and the Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti. Prior to the ceremony, Admiral Davids was promoted from Rear Admiral to Vice Admiral in a private ceremony.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, USNA Class of 1983, spoke at the ceremony highlighting the importance of leadership at the Naval Academy and how their decisions shape our future leaders.

“The Superintendent is indeed more than just a president of a college – they are a leader, a mentor, a role model for everyone stationed here on the years — from the most junior Sailor and Midshipman to the senior-most faculty members and military officers,” said Del Toro. “Their vision, their decisions, their conduct shapes the future leaders of our Fleet and our Force, ensuring that this institution graduates men and women of honor, of courage, and of commitment to our national security to ensure the United States of America remains a beacon of hope and prosperity.”

Adm. Lisa Franchetti, 33rd Chief of Naval Operations, spoke about the important role our Navy leadership has on current global events and the impact the new superintendent will have on developing future leaders within the Brigade of Midshipmen.

“Today is truly a great Navy day, and we all have a lot to celebrate,” said Franchetti. “I am personally thrilled to be starting this new year out right, by getting two of our Navy’s finest naval officers into the positions we need them to be in, to build and lead the teams that will enable our naval service to get after our nation’s most pressing challenges.”

Kacher, a native of Oakton, Virginia and a member of USNA’s Class of 1990, was selected to serve as the acting and 64th superintendent beginning in August 2023. During Kacher’s remarks, he thanked both Secretary Del Toro and the Chief of Naval Operations.

“Thank you both for your leadership and faith in me as I embarked upon a job that every midshipman at one point dreams about, even if just for a second,” said Kacher. “I’m confident I leave the Academy on firm footing just as it was left to me. For the second time in my life, I can say 33 years after the first time, I leave the United States Naval Academy more grateful and more prepared for the adventure ahead where I plan to do my utmost to earn this Nation’s trust every day.”

Kacher has been confirmed for promotion to the rank of Vice Admiral and will serve as the next commander of U.S. Seventh Fleet in Yokosuka, Japan. As he departed, he left a message to the Brigade of Midshipmen.

“I am thankful for the Brigade of Midshipmen who made me want to be a better leader every day,” said Kacher. “It was a privilege to join our midshipmen as they committed to serve at ‘2 for 7’ night, celebrated at pep rallies, competed all over the Yard and country, and earned their service assignment as future leaders in the Navy and Marine Corps.”

Davids, a native of San Antonio, Texas and a member of USNA’s Class of 1989, is the academy’s 65th superintendent and the first woman to serve in the role. She is coming to Annapolis from San Diego, Calif. where she was Acting Commander, Naval Surface Forces, Acting Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Command. Her extensive background as a career surface warfare officer includes commanding USS Curts (FFG 38), USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), and Carrier Strike Group 11. She has deployed in support of Desert Shield/Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom.

“I am beyond honored to become the 65th Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, and I look back on the experiences of those before me to guide the way ahead,” said Davids. “In the lasting words of Navy legend Admiral Grace Hopper, who in 1985 spoke to my Plebe Class, ‘A ship in port is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for. Sail out to sea and do new things,’ which we will do together. I look forward to the exceptional semesters, moments, and experiences we will share.”

The U.S. Naval Academy remains committed to its mission of training and educating future Navy and Marine Corps officers, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership, and continuity of its esteemed programs.

The mission of the United States Naval Academy is to develop midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically and to imbue them with the highest ideals of duty, honor, and loyalty in order to graduate leaders who are dedicated to a career of naval service and have potential for future development in mind and character to assume the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship, and government.

For more information about Davids, her bio can be found here: https://www.navy.mil/Leadership/Flag-Officer-Biographies/Search/Article/2236396/rear-admiral-yvette-davids.

For more information on the U.S. Naval Academy, visit www.usna.edu and the Naval Academy Facebook page www.facebook.com/USNavalAcademy.

Source: United States Navy

Good afternoon, everyone! It is wonderful to be here with you here at the United States Naval Academy for this special moment for our Academy, our Navy and Marine Corps, and indeed our Nation.

Governor Moore, Lieutenant Governor Miller, and Mayor Buckley, thank you for your leadership of the great State of Maryland and the City of Annapolis, as well as your continued partnership in support of a strong Navy and Marine Corps. Secretary Dalton, Secretary Braithwaite, it is an honor to have you both of you with us this afternoon. Welcome back to the Yard. Admiral Franchetti, Lieutenant General Glynn, distinguished guests, members of the Academy’s Board of Visitors, USNA alumni, faculty, and staff, and friends and families of Vice Admiral Davids and Rear Admiral Kacher, welcome, and thank you for joining us for today’sceremony.

For over 178 years, this institution has graduated the leaders our Nation required, from Admirals and Generals, leaders in industry, members of Congress, to a President of the United States.Today, we are gathered here in Memorial Hall to celebrate the transfer of responsibility between two of our Fleet’s great leaders—and products of Annapolis—Rear Admiral Fred Kacher, USNA Class of 1990, and Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, USNA Class of 1989. Since 1845, the United States Naval Academy has prepared men and women from all walks of life to lead our Sailors and Marines—both in times of peace and times of war.

As many in this room know, the mission of USNA is “to develop Midshipmen morally, mentally and physically and to imbue them with the highest ideals of duty, honor and loyalty in order to graduate leaders who are dedicated to a career of naval service and have potential for future development in mind and character to assume the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship, and government.” To ensure this happens, the Secretary of the Navy is charged with nominating a career naval officer with strong leadership credentials to be appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate to guide this institution.

As a member of USNA’s great class of 1983, I know just how much impact the Superintendent can have on the 4,500 Midshipmen under their leadership, and can tell you that, without a doubt, my Superintendent—Vice Admiral William P. Lawrence—had a tremendous influence on how I have approached leadership roles over the last 40 years.

The Superintendent is indeed more than just a president of a college—they are a leader, a mentor, a role model for everyone stationed here on the yard—from the most junior Sailor and Midshipmen to the senior-most faculty members and military officers.

Their vision, their decisions, their conduct shapes the future leaders of our Fleet and our Force, ensuring that this institution graduates men and women of honor, of courage, and of commitment to our national security to ensure the United States of America remains a beacon of hope and prosperity.

Rear Admiral Kacher, thank you for serving as Superintendent of our alma mater over the last five months, taking over in August from my friend and Academy classmate, Vice Admiral Sean Buck.

You superbly led the Naval Academy during a period of uncertainty in our Flag Officer ranks, ensuring that the Senate confirmation holds did not become a distraction from the important work of developing our next generation of naval leaders.

You, your wife Pam, and your family continued to welcome our alumni home with open arms during class weekends, and you undoubtedly advanced this school’s strong sense of community during your tenure.

Your impact on the Academy, especially our Midshipmen, is evident.

As you return to Japan to assume command of the U.S. Seventh Fleet in support of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region, I am pleased to announce that, from this day forward, you will enshrined in our alma mater’s history as the 64^th Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy.

This recognition is well-earned, and I cannot thank you enough for charting a course that will support your relief’s future success.

We look forward to your continued mentorship of these Midshipmen once they commission and are under your command throughout the Fleet.

And now, ladies and gentlemen, it is my distinct honor to welcome our 65^th Superintendent, Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, her husband Rear Admiral Keith Davids—USNA Class of 1990, and their sons Kai and Kiernan, back home to the Yard. While I am proud of each and every Admiral and General whose nominations I present to Secretary Austin and President Biden for consideration to assume greater positions of responsibility, I am especially proud of being afforded the opportunity to nominate Vice Admiral Davids for Superintendent.

During my Plebe Year from 1979 to 1980, my Firsties included the first group of women who were admitted to the United States Naval Academy.

My classmates and I watched them train, overcome adversity, and succeed in achieving their goal of becoming officers in the United States Navy and Marine Corps.

They proved to the nay-sayers that they were even more qualified to graduate from this school and serve our Nation.

They were the women in the arena that President Teddy Roosevelt talks about, they were warriors, and they blazed a trail that thousands of women have followed at this school as Midshipmen, and as officers leading our Sailors and Marines around the globe.

Vice Admiral Davids—who followed closely in their footsteps—has demonstrated her ability to successfully lead Sailors at the ship, carrier strike group, and most recently, force levels of command.

She is indeed representative of everything that makes America special.  Regardless of our race, our gender, where we came from or who we love—our nation, these United States, will provide opportunities to excel to those who work for it, and in our Navy, to those who prove themselves to be the strongest link in the chain.

Vice Admiral Davids, your career has led you to this moment, and I could not be more excited for you to lead this school that we both love so much.

Admiral Franchetti and I are confident that you are the right person to command the Naval Academy at this pivotal moment in our Nation’s history, and we are standing by to support you in any way that we can.

Again, it is an honor to be with you all this afternoon.  To the Kacher family, we wish you fair winds and following seas as you embark on your journey to Japan, and to the Davids family, again, welcome home to Annapolis.

May God bless our Sailors, Marines, Civilians, Midshipmen, and their families. Thank you.