The Navy Secretary is a high-ranking government official who serves as the head of the United States Navy, acting as the civilian leader of the Department of the Navy. This individual is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The Navy Secretary is responsible for overseeing the organization, administration, and operation of the Navy and the Marine Corps, ensuring their readiness, efficiency, and effectiveness.
The role of the Navy Secretary encompasses a range of responsibilities, including formulating policies and strategic plans, proposing budgets, and providing guidance to military leaders. They collaborate with other government agencies, Congress, and international counterparts to ensure national defense objectives are met.
As a civilian leader, the Navy Secretary plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy relationship between the civilian and military authorities. They act as a liaison between the Navy and the President, the Secretary of Defense, and other government officials. Additionally, they represent the Navy's interests and advocate for its resources and capabilities to the public, Congress, and other stakeholders.
The Navy Secretary is ultimately accountable for the Navy and Marine Corps' readiness to execute missions worldwide, ensuring the protection, security, and promotion of national interests at sea and ashore. They are responsible for maintaining the fighting force's capabilities while upholding the principles of civilian control over the military, fostering a culture of professionalism, ethics, and adherence to the rule of law within the naval services.
The etymology of the word "navy secretary" can be broken down as follows:
1. Navy: The word "navy" originates from the Middle English word "navie" or "navee", which came from the Old French word "navie" meaning "fleet of ships" or "a collection of ships". It ultimately traces back to the Latin word "navis" meaning "ship".
2. Secretary: The word "secretary" has its roots in the Latin word "secretarius", which referred to a confidential officer or confidant. It was derived from the Latin word "secretum", meaning "secret" or "private".
When the terms "navy" and "secretary" are combined, "navy secretary" refers to a person who holds the position of secretary within the context of a navy or naval organization.