From Refugee to Naval Leadership: Hung Cao’s Inspiring Journey

Warship sailing with American flag in open sea.

President Donald Trump has nominated former Navy captain Hung Cao to serve as Under Secretary of the Navy, marking another milestone in Cao’s remarkable journey from refugee to a distinguished military leader.

Key Takeaways

  • President Donald Trump nominated Hung Cao for Under Secretary of the Navy.
  • Trump praised Cao as “the embodiment of the American Dream.”
  • Cao served as a Navy captain for 25 years and ran as a GOP Senate candidate.
  • Cao has criticized Navy “diversity, equity and inclusion” efforts.
  • Cao’s family fled Vietnam in 1975, and he looks forward to serving in his new role.

A Nominated Leader

Donald Trump has tapped Hung Cao for a pivotal role as Under Secretary of the Navy. Cao’s nomination comes on the heels of his history-making career in the military and his recent foray into political contests. With 25 years of service, including roles as a Special Operations Officer and at the Pentagon, Cao is set to apply his leadership skills in this new capacity.

Trump lauded Cao as “the embodiment of the American Dream,” highlighting Cao’s journey from Vietnam to his accomplishments as a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and holder of a Master’s Degree in Physics. His nomination signifies a commitment to bringing experienced military leaders into key defense roles.

Political and Military Background

Hung Cao is no stranger to political challenges, having contested in high-profile races against Democrat opponents. He previously ran against Senator Tim Kaine and for a congressional seat in Virginia’s 10th district. Despite his losses, Cao’s stature in military and conservative circles continues to grow.

“Hung is the embodiment of the American Dream. As a refugee to our Great Nation, Hung worked tirelessly to make proud the Country that gave his family a home.”

Trump

In his military tenure, Cao was known for his outspoken views against the Navy’s diversity and inclusion initiatives. He advocated for the presence of “alpha males and females” in military recruitment, intensifying his stance that future naval success requires a different caliber of enlistees.

Commitment and Next Steps

With his family’s roots tracing back to their initial refuge from Vietnam in 1975, Cao’s narrative resonates strongly with citizens who value perseverance and dedication to the nation that welcomed him. His focus now shifts to gaining Senate approval for the Under Secretary role, a process that will test his readiness to serve in this new capacity.

Cao expressed immense gratitude toward Trump for the nomination, reiterating his willingness to serve with integrity and uphold the values he deeply cherishes. As the nation awaits the Senate’s decision, many look forward to the potential new directions in Navy leadership under Cao’s guidance.

Sources

1. Trump Nominates Hung Cao to Be Under Secretary of Navy

2. Trump taps Hung Cao – who wants military recruits willing to ‘rip out their own guts’ – to serve as No. 2 Navy official