Adm. Daryl Caudle assumed duties as the 34th Chief of Naval Operations in an Aug. 25 ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard, where more than 300 senior Defense Department leaders, guests and family members gathered to mark the transition. The Navy’s top uniformed officer, the CNO sits on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, advises the president and senior national security leaders, and oversees the readiness and worldwide operations of naval forces and shore activities.
“As I step into the role as your 34th Chief of Naval Operations, I do so with great pride, immense gratitude, and an absolute focus on the mission ahead,” Caudle said in a video to the Fleet, released shortly before the ceremony. The Navy posted the message at https://youtu.be/4WDgh66edoo?si=ZgvDq-KjW8WWoV5Z.
From the stage, Caudle outlined priorities centered on sailors, operational readiness and fleet modernization. “The Sailor will be front and center in my vision throughout my tenure as CNO – hands down, no exception,” said Caudle during the ceremony. “To ensure that they are ready to fight and win decisively–today, tomorrow, and well into the future—we will view everything we do we through an operational lens focused on three priorities: the foundry, the fleet, and the way we fight.”
Secretary of the Navy John Phelan presided and praised the incoming CNO. “Admiral Caudle, ‘the honey badger,’ is the right man for the job,” said Secretary Phelan. “He has a reputation for challenging the status quo, demanding results and refusing to accept excuses. I look forward to seeing that relentlessness pursuit of excellence and persistence pervade the halls of the Pentagon.”
Caudle also thanked his family for their support throughout his 40-year career. “Your influence is woven into the very fabric of my being, into every decision I’ve ever made,” said Caudle, addressing his family. “From the moment we met, you’ve been the bedrock of my life. You’re the anchor that has kept me grounded, especially in the sometimes turbulent seas of this profession.”
A native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and a 1985 North Carolina State University graduate, Caudle previously led U.S. Fleet Forces Command, U.S. Submarine Forces, and Submarine Force Atlantic.
Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jim Kilby relinquished the office after serving as acting CNO from February to August 2025. Caudle and Phelan credited Kilby with sustaining the Navy’s mission and supporting ties with allies and partners during the interim period.
