CNO Challenges New Chiefs to Take Navy into the Future

Since 10-01-04

Excerpt from NSL UPDATE 09-23-2004

CNO Challenges New Chiefs to Take Navy into the Future
By Chief Journalist Walter T. Ham IV, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- During the Sept. 16 Pentagon Chief’s Pinning Ceremony, Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Vern Clark welcomed new chiefs to the Navy’s senior enlisted cadre and challenged them to paint a vision of the future for the Sailors they lead.

“This day is about the future. This day is about your willingness to assume more responsibility – your willingness to assume the task that is before you, to lead our Navy,” the CNO said. “You will have the opportunity to pick up the paint brush, and paint a vision of the future for our young men and women. You will be such an important part of their lives.”

Appearing with Secretary of the Navy Gordon England, the CNO said expectations are high for all new chiefs, because their track records of success are indicative of their ability to assume increased responsibilities. “I’m fond of saying that chiefs make the Navy run,” Clark said. “Chiefs are the most influential leaders that we have in our institution.”

The CNO added that chiefs are selected for their proven leadership ability rather than as recognition for past achievements. “This advancement is not a reward for your past contributions,” Clark said. “Certainly your achievements of the past made today possible, because if you had not been successful, you would not be standing here today. But I want you to understand that the role you will play in the future is more important than anything you have done in the past.”

Clark also told the new chiefs that as they put on khakis, they enter a covenant as leaders. Throughout their careers, their success will be evaluated on their ability to accomplish their mission, and grow and develop the Sailors they lead. “I congratulate you because you’ve been selected as the best among the best – extraordinary roles models. We wish you well as you assume this position of greater leadership in the future,” the CNO said. “All of you got here because of a lot of people helped you along the way. And the families are a key part of this day, because it takes a team effort to do what you have achieved up to now and to face the challenges that are ahead of you.”

C. Michael Garverick
Captain, U. S. Navy (Retired)
Executive Director
Naval Submarine League www.navalsubleague.com 
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