SECNAV Celebrates Arrival of New NCIS Special Agents Class

NCIS Director Omar Lopez delivered remarks highlighting the importance of applying training skills in the field, before introducing Secretary Del Toro as the keynote speaker.

In his address, Secretary Del Toro traced the history of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), which evolved from the Glynco Naval Air Station in 1974, maintaining a profound connection to the Navy. He recognized NCIS Director Lopez, applauding his commitment to the Navy both as a former judge advocate and now the first Hispanic American NCIS director.

Addressing the graduates, Secretary Del Toro reminded them that despite the diverse paths that led them to this achievement—whether inspired by fellow agents or the popular TV series—it marks the conclusion of a significant chapter before they transition into their new roles.

“Your journey has been arduous, and there have been moments when you faced self-doubt,” he noted. “But this day marks the culmination of your training and hard work. Your continued service and commitment to the United States of America are invaluable.”

The NCIS Special Agent Basic Training Program is a rigorous, accredited 12-week course. It combines FLETC’s standard Special Agent training with advanced skills development in cyber defense, crime scene management, tactics, family and sexual violence, counterintelligence, and complex interviewing.

Secretary Del Toro emphasized the global necessity for the graduates’ expertise—from the Indo-Pacific to Europe to the Red Sea—highlighting challenges in these strategic areas.

Reflecting on his tenure, he reiterated the Navy’s priorities: strengthening maritime dominance, fostering warfighting excellence, and enhancing strategic partnerships. He stressed that these goals rely fundamentally on the dedicated personnel within the Navy.

“No organization embodies these priorities better than the Naval Criminal Investigative Service,” Del Toro stated. “NCIS protects our Sailors, Marines, and Department of the Navy civilians from harm, shouldering a vast and critical set of responsibilities.”

Praising NCIS for its focus on personnel, he remarked that their daily contributions affirm the department’s core values.

“The nation will demand much of you, as defenders of our service members, justice, and law,” he concluded. “Whether serving briefly or dedicating a lifetime, your time with NCIS will be rewarding and significant. Move forward with confidence, buoyed by your teammates and a grateful nation.”

Secretary Del Toro, sworn in as the 78th Secretary of the Navy on August 9, 2021, oversees above 900,000 personnel, including Sailors, Marines, reservists, and civilians, managing a budget exceeding $210 billion annually.

NCIS functions as a federal law enforcement agency charged with investigating felony crime, thwarting terrorism, and safeguarding secrets for the U.S. Department of the Navy. Employing about 2,300 personnel, including approximately 1,000 federal special agents, NCIS operates in 41 countries through 191 global locations.