Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao

We all have a list. Say their names. Their memories will never fade.

Today's graduation in Annapolis was the proud convergence of two of my greatest honors: leading the Department of the Navy and being a father.   To the parents and families: thank you for raising these remarkable young men and women, and for planting the seed of service.   To my son—one of our Nation’s newest Second Lieutenants in the Marine Corps—and the entire @NavalAcademy Class of 2026: We could not be more proud.   Semper Fi and Hooyah!

Today at the U.S. @NavalAcademy, I saw the next generation of naval officers standing ready to take the watch.   While it is one thing to be told they have what it takes, it is entirely another to look them in the eye as they raise their right hand and swear to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.   Standing before this incredible class, I was overwhelmed with hope. These aren't just the leaders of tomorrow—they represent the unbreakable resolve of our Nation.   Class of 2026: You have the watch!

Reflecting on conversations with Congress this week as we approach Memorial Day. No matter who I am speaking with, my focus always returns to the Marines and Sailors who signed a blank check to defend our homeland. Freedom isn't free. We owe an unpayable debt to our fallen and to our Gold Star families.

We’re not buying into foreign shipyards—we’re having them invest in U.S. shipbuilding. By bringing their operations stateside, we can crank out our ships quicker and create over half a million American jobs. It’s time to breathe new life into our nation’s industrial base.

Semper Fi, Marine!

From the Great White Fleet to the Golden Fleet…we must build more ships!

Earlier today in the Gulf of Oman, U.S. Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit boarded M/T Celestial Sea, an Iranian-flagged commercial oil tanker suspected of attempting to violate the U.S. blockade by transiting toward an Iranian port. American forces released the vessel after searching and directing the ship’s crew to alter course. U.S. forces continue to fully enforce the blockade and have now redirected 91 commercial ships to ensure compliance.

Welcome to the Caribbean, Nimitz Carrier Strike Group! The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), the embarked Carrier Air Wing 17 (CVW-17), USS Gridley (DDG 101) and USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201) are the epitome of readiness and presence, unmatched reach and lethality, and strategic advantage. USS Nimitz has proven its combat prowess across the globe, ensuring stability and defending democracy from the Taiwan Strait to the Arabian Gulf. @DeptofWar @USNavy @NAVSOUS4THFLT @USFleetForces @WHAAsstSecty

#Marines serving in the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technicians detect, identify, and neutralize explosive hazards across the globe. The purpose of this MOS is to protect personnel, preserve combat power, and enable freedom of maneuver for U.S. and allied forces. #MarineCorps #USMC #EOD #WarriorWednesday

Today during the Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing, I announced the MQ-25A Stingray is moving into the production phase. Integrating unmanned refueling extends the lethality of our Carrier Strike Groups and equips our force with a decisive advantage to fight and win against any adversary.

Steel. Strength. Power. Forged by American hands and brought to life by her crew, the USS Cleveland (LCS 31) is more than a warship — she is a statement. Unmatched craftsmanship. Unmatched resolve. With a nation behind them, our Sailors and Marines remain ready—to fight and win.

Welcome Home! BZ

It doesn't matter if you're a man, woman, black, or white—the sea is unforgiving. War and hardship do not discriminate, and they will test us all the same.

Ships. Jobs. Maritime Dominance. Today before the House Armed Services Committee, I detailed how the Department of the Navy provides our nation with the strategic and tactical edge, ensuring our warfighters have the decisive advantage required to deter and defeat any threat.

You may not see my scars, but they are there. I know trauma. I know pain. I also know that seeking help is a sign of strength. I did, and you can too. This Mental Health Awareness Month, I remain committed to breaking down barriers to care for our Sailors and Marines. You are always worth fighting for.