Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP) Vice Adm. Scott R. Van Buskirk visited recruiters and staff members assigned to Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles, April 30.
During the visit, Van Buskirk toured the district’s headquarters and conducted an all-hands call with recruiters, support staff and civilian personnel.
“What we have gathered here is representative of our Total Force Concept,” said Van Buskirk, speaking about the active duty, reserve, DOD civilian and contractors in attendance. “When we talk about the entire spectrum of the Navy, it is people like you.”
During the hour-long engagement, CNP discussed how the Navy is making a difference around the world.
“We are America’s Away Team focusing on the Chief of Naval Operation’s (CNO) tenants of Warfighting First, Operate Forward and Being Ready. We know that our Navy is relevant looking at our demand signal externally and we can see it with our retention internally,” said Van Buskirk. “We are making a difference around the world, developing partner nations though the commonality of being mariners on the sea.”
The Petaluma, Calif. native also discussed how recruiting fits in shaping today’s Navy.
“You are the ones who are bringing in the next CNO or the next Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. They all have to get their start in places like these, with people like you,” said Van Buskirk.
Following the all-hands call, CNP officiated a swearing in ceremony at the Los Angeles Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) for Future Airmen, Marines, Sailors and Soldiers.
“I am proud of each one of you,” Van Buskirk said to the 30 future warriors and their families in the MEPS ceremonial room. “You are the future; of our services and our country.”
Navy Recruiting District Los Angeles enlists more than 2,600 highly qualified men and women yearly throughout its more than 26,000 square territory, encompassing portions of Southern California, Hawaii, Guam and military installations in Japan.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, May 3, 2013; Image: US Navy