In a move surpising absolutely no one, diversity-loving President Biden nominated Admiral Lisa Franchetti to take command of the US Navy, disregarding the recommendation of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who had favored Admiral Samuel Paparo for the position.

If confirmed, Admiral Franchetti would become the first woman to command a military branch and earn a historic place on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Admiral Paparo, a distinguished TOPGUN graduate with extensive experience in F-14s, F-15s, and F/A-18s, along with 1,100 carrier landings and proven leadership in war zones, seemed to have a strong case for the role.

However, critics point to the Biden administration’s focus on diversity hires as a potential factor in sidelining his bid, given his biologically male gender and race as a white man.

President Biden lauded Admiral Franchetti’s career accomplishments, stating, “Throughout her career, Adm. Franchetti has demonstrated extensive expertise in both the operational and policy arenas.”

Never missing a chance to pat himself on the back, Biden highlighted her gender milestone, saying, “She is the second woman ever to achieve the rank of four-star admiral in the United States Navy.”

Despite Defense Secretary Austin’s preference, he praised Admiral Franchetti, expressing confidence that she will continue to inspire the armed forces.

This appointment comes 15 months after President Biden previously selected a woman to command the Coast Guard, showcasing the administration’s commitment to breaking gender barriers in the military leadership.

With an impressive 38-year service record that began with commanding destroyers, Admiral Franchetti currently holds the position of vice chief of naval operations, the Navy’s second-highest rank.

Notably, she also served as the commander of the Sixth Fleet, where she played a role in President Trump’s actions regarding Syria, involving alleged chemical weapons usage by President Assad.

Admiral Franchetti’s nomination requires confirmation by the Senate, a process that may not be without its challenges.

Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville has been blocking military confirmations in protest of the Pentagon’s policy of funding service members’ travel for abortions, which he deems illegal.

Senator Tuberville expressed his concerns in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, arguing that such a significant policy change should be debated by elected representatives in Congress.

As President Biden made the announcement of Admiral Franchetti’s nomination, he addressed Senator Tuberville’s objections, stating, “It has long been an article of faith in this country that supporting our service members and their families, and providing for the strength of our national defense, transcends politics. What Sen. Tuberville is doing is not only wrong, it is dangerous.”

Really makes you think.

Meanwhile, President Biden has nominated Admiral Samuel Paparo to lead the Indo-Pacific Command, which oversees an extensive area of responsibility spanning about 52% of the Earth’s surface.

The nomination of both Admiral Franchetti and Admiral Paparo reflects President Biden’s commitment to diversifying and modernizing the military’s leadership ranks.

The move aligns with the administration’s broader efforts to promote “inclusivity and representation across various sectors of government and society”.

Considering all the conflict and potential potential chaos going on in the world, is this REALLY what America’s military should be focused on?

Inclusivity, race and gender?

The armed forces must maintain their focus on training, equipment, strategic planning, and the capability to address real and potential threats.

Hopefully the Navy can turn this ship around.

Read the original article here:
Associated Press