Good morning, I’m Vice Admiral Lisa Franchetti, commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet in Naples, Italy. And what a great morning it is! It’s my great privilege to join your families in welcoming all 911 of you into the World’s Greatest Navy.
For over a century, Naval Station Great Lakes has transformed over three million civilians into highly-trained Sailors. The program here has always been rigorous, demanding more from recruits than you probably thought possible.
But each of you has selflessly answered the call to duty, to serve a cause greater than yourselves.
You’ve passed Battle Stations, and proven yourselves worthy of wearing the uniform that symbolizes freedom throughout the world, the uniform of the United States Navy.
To your Recruit Division Commanders, instructors, and the staff here at RTC, I offer my thanks as well. You have taken on the unique and honorable challenge of shaping these young people into the finest American Sailors.
We train like we fight and you have helped ensure we maintain the Navy’s high standards. Thank you for your dedication.
And I certainly want to acknowledge the families and friends who have made the trip here or are listening and watching online for the integral role you’ve played in making today happen.
You too helped shape your Sailor into a person who understands the Navy Core Values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. I welcome you into the Navy Family.
With today’s dynamic security environment, your Sailor will be on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, and will often times be needed to stand the watch while serving far from home.
We’ve recruited and trained these Sailors, but we fully recognize that they can’t do it alone, so I ask for your continued support of your Sailor as they embark on their naval journey.
I’ll close now because I know you are eager to be reunited with your loved ones. You are about to embark on one of the most challenging adventures of your life. And if you hit the lottery, you will be assigned out in Europe with me!
But in all seriousness, you’ve chosen to serve at a time when your country needs you.
Together, we must show a strong presence throughout the world, on and under the seas, and in the skies. Maritime forces deployed all over the world provide decision space and options for our country’s leaders.
Thank you for being a part of the one percent of Americans who serve our country in uniform today. You’ve taken on the responsibility of supporting and defending the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, and you are now well prepared for that tremendous duty. You have earned not only mine, but the respect of a grateful nation.
Congratulations, Sailors and thank you for your service! See you in the Fleet!