Secretary Raven met with Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC), and subordinate instructions to debate psychological well being and high quality of life points. He additionally performed workplace calls with Brigadier Gen. John Kelliher, deputy commander, Fleet Marine Drive Atlantic Headquarters (FMFLANT HQ); and Cmdr. Charles Harmon, commanding officer, Navy Expertise Acquisition Group (NTAG) Richmond.
“Bettering high quality of life alternatives and making certain instant entry to psychological well being assets for our Sailors and Marines are completely high priorities for the Division,” mentioned Raven. “We should guarantee we’ve important assets accessible for our service members as our resilience ties on to our readiness and mission effectiveness.”
Whereas on the Navy Recruiting Station – Norfolk, Cmdr. Harmon briefed Secretary Raven about recruiting efforts at NTAG Richmond’s three Expertise Acquisition Onboarding Facilities, 41 Expertise Acquisition Stations, and eight Navy Officer Recruiting Stations all through Virginia, Washington, D.C., southern Maryland, and northern North Carolina.
“Along with specializing in the power we’ve at this time, we proceed to lean ahead on attracting the expertise we have to man our Navy with the best high quality Sailors,” mentioned Raven. “Our personal Sailors are sometimes the primary impression that potential candidates have of the USA Navy. Thanks for persevering with to supply top-tier service to those candidates, candidates, future recruits and tomorrow’s Sailors.”
Secretary Raven additionally toured Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) to fulfill with Sailors.
“One of many best experiences as Beneath Secretary is the chance to fulfill so many extremely gifted Sailors,” mentioned Raven. “I’m past impressed with the professionalism and motivation I’ve seen whereas touring the deckplates.”
Secretary Raven met with Capt. Charles Eckhart, Commander, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Group TWO at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia Seaside, Va. and toured their STRIKE Middle, which is a system to construct resiliency on the particular person stage throughout the EOD power.
“We ask numerous our Sailors as they perform missions in help of our nationwide protection,” mentioned Raven. “Similar to we put money into the upkeep and sustainment of our ships, submarines and plane, we should prioritize caring for our Sailors of their relaxation and restoration, stress administration and different elements that contribute to their particular person readiness and well-being.”
On June 25, Secretary Raven attended the commissioning ceremony for the most recent Virginia-class quick assault submarine USS Montana (SSN 794).
“USS Montana provides the following technology of stealth, surveillance and particular warfare capabilities to our Joint Drive, and extends our built-in deterrence capabilities,” mentioned Raven. “This highly effective boat and her crew will defend our sea lanes, strengthen our maritime dominance, and contribute to strengthening {our relationships} with our allies and companions.”
