NORFOLK, Va.-Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Daryl Caudle held his first all-hands call as the Navy's 34th CNO aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) at Naval Station Norfolk, Aug. 28, addressing Truman Sailors and commands from across the waterfront.
Sailors filled the hangar bay as Caudle outlined his priorities for the Navy's future-The Foundry, The Fleet, and The Way We Fight.
Truman Commanding Officer Capt. Daniel Prochazka said he was proud his ship was chosen to host the CNO's first visit.
"Having Adm. Caudle choose Truman for his first all-hands call as CNO was a powerful moment for this crew and for the fleet," said Prochazka. "Our Sailors came home from deployment combat-tested and proud, and that spirit was on full display as they welcomed him aboard. It was a meaningful start to his tenure and a reminder of Norfolk's central role in the strength of our Navy."
While aboard, Caudle discussed the importance of taking care of Sailors, advancing readiness, and delivering a combat-credible Fleet.
"Let there be no doubt that the single greatest and enduring competitive advantage against our adversaries is all of you-the Sailors," Caudle said to the Sailors in attendance. "You are the engine that brings our ships to life, ensures our equipment performs with maximum endurance and efficacy, and delivers the lethal ordnance to win in combat."
Caudle emphasized the key elements of his strategic vision, emphasizing the Navy's focus on operational readiness, force generation, and warfighting excellence.
"Our Navy must be resilient, agile, globally present, and combat credible-ready to fight and win decisively - today, tomorrow, and well into the future," said Caudle. "To achieve this vision, everything we do will be viewed through an operational lens focused on three priorities: the Foundry, the Fleet, and the way we Fight."
During the engagement, Caudle answered questions from the crew, listened to their feedback, and personally recognized the achievements of several Sailors.
"Being recognized by the CNO at his first fleet event is something I'm proud of, but it really reflects the hard work of my division," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Cory Juncker, who received a challenge coin from Caudle. "We put a lot into keeping our gear ready, and this shows our effort makes a difference."
"Having the CNO come here first shows he really wants to connect with Sailors," said Seaman Eliana Gilson, a Sailor of the quarter aboard Truman. "For me, being early in my career, it makes the Navy feel a little smaller and more personal."
Before departing Truman, Caudle expressed his confidence in the Navy's ability to meet future challenges and achieve success through unity and relentless dedication.
"With battle-ready Sailors like you manning the helm, our Fleet delivers overwhelming effects like no other in the world: mobility, persistent presence, and global reach-causing our adversaries to think twice, while reassuring our allies that peace is best kept through strength," said Caudle.
Caudle, a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has served nearly four decades in uniform. A career submariner and magna cum laude graduate of North Carolina State University, he has commanded at every level from submarine to fleet. He most recently led U.S. Fleet Forces Command before assuming duties as CNO earlier this month.
USS Harry S. Truman, the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Strike Group, is a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. Carrier Strike Groups remain the cornerstone of the Navy's forward presence through sea control and power projection.
