In a groundbreaking decision, US President Joe Biden has selected Admiral Lisa Franchetti to take the helm of the US Navy, marking the first time in American history that a woman will lead the prestigious military branch.
Admiral Lisa Franchetti’s nomination to head the Pentagon Military Services Branch is a significant milestone for gender representation in the US military. The nomination is pending ratification by the US Senate, but if approved, she will assume the position as Navy Chief, paving the way for women to ascend to the highest ranks of the Joint Chief of Staff for the first time.
Lisa Franchetti has an impressive track record of accomplishments in her military career. She has previously served as the head of the US Sixth Fleet and US Naval Forces in South Korea, as well as commanding an Aircraft Carrier Strike group. Her expertise spans both operational and policy areas, making her a well-rounded and capable choice to lead the Navy.
Notably, if Admiral Franchetti’s nomination is confirmed, she will become only the second American woman to achieve the prestigious rank of Four Star Admiral, a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to her service.
President Biden expressed his confidence in Admiral Franchetti’s abilities, highlighting her historic achievement and emphasizing her vast experience in key military positions. Her appointment represents a pivotal moment in US military history and sets a powerful example for aspiring women in the armed forces.
Interestingly, it was reported that Admiral Franchetti was not the initial pick of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who recommended Samuel Paparoa for the Navy chief position. However, in a strategic move, President Biden has also promoted Paparoa and nominated him to command US military forces in the Pacific region.
Among the other senior officers being held up include the nominee for chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. C.Q. Brown; nominee for Army chief of staff, Gen. Randy George; and nominee for commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric Smith. The Marine Corps is without a confirmed Commandant for the first time in more than 100 years as Smith has not yet been confirmed to take over for his predecessor, Gen. David Berger, who left command earlier this month.
Franchetti marks another first for the Biden administration’s Defense Department, which has now had the first Black secretary of defense, the first female Army secretary, Christine Wormuth, and upon Brown’s confirmation would mark the first time the Pentagon’s two most senior leaders are Black men.
Biden pointed to Tuberville’s hold on Friday, saying that it is “not only wrong — it is dangerous.”
As the confirmation process unfolds, the world awaits the historic moment when Admiral Lisa Franchetti could lead the US Navy, breaking barriers and opening doors for future generations of female military leaders.