Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced his recommendation of Navy Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, who currently serves as vice chief of naval operations, to be the next chief of naval operations.
Current CNO Navy Adm. Gary Roughead is retiring next fall.
Gates’ recommendation is based on Greenert’s “solid portfolio†of work including major personnel programs and budget responsibilities, according to an American Forces Press Service report.
Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who is also soon to retire, callled Greenert “an exceptional officer.â€
“He has wonderful operational experience, fleet experience, he’s terrific with people and he has extensive experience in the money world, which is now facing all of us,†Mullen said.
Greenert’s career as a submariner includes assignments aboard the USS Flying Fish, USS Tautog, Submarine NR-1 and USS Michigan and as commander of USS Honolulu. He has also served in various fleet support and financial management positions, including deputy chief of naval operations for integration of capabilities and rand director, Operations Division Navy Comptroller, among others.
Gates also offered praise for Roughead, who will retire this fall, after serving as CNO since 2007.
“I have very much enjoyed working with Gary and have greatly valued his counsel and wisdom on both Navy issues and broader strategic issues,†he said.
