SECNAV Del Toro Leads Game-Changing Foreign Area Officer Summit at U.S. Naval Academy

ANNAPOLIS, Maryland (Sept. 12, 2024) – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presided over the inaugural Department of the Navy Foreign Area Officers Summit at Mahan Hall, U.S. Naval Academy, on September 12th, 2024.

The summit allowed Secretary Del Toro to engage directly with Foreign Area Officers (FAOs) stationed globally and share his strategic priorities. These priorities encompassed global engagement, strategic competition, and enhancing interoperability with Allies.

Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy for Policy, Ms. Anne Gebhards, introduced Secretary Del Toro. Keynote remarks were later provided by National Security Council Spokesperson Mr. John Kirby. The panel of speakers included Lt. Gen. Joseph “JP” McGee, Adm. Stuart Munsch, and Lt. Gen. James Bierman.

The Navy Foreign Area Officer community represents a unique group of naval officers who are assigned worldwide, specializing in various regions and enhancing their expertise through language and graduate education.

“FAOs are essentially the eyes and ears of our Navy and Marine Corps team,” remarked Del Toro. “Their role is crucial in implementing our National Defense Strategy on the front lines, which is precisely where they need to be.”

Naval officers selected for FAO roles undergo rigorous training, including regional specialization and language education, to fulfill their duties effectively. They often adapt to different foreign environments, some of which are austere or even dangerous.

“We have progressed from viewing FAOs as merely military diplomats to recognizing their vital role in complex interagency environments and security cooperation programs,” added Del Toro.

FAOs contribute significantly by coordinating operations with Allies, managing tensions, and, if necessary, excelling in conflict scenarios. They possess comprehensive knowledge in political-military affairs and regional expertise, including proficiency in dominant local languages.

Navy FAOs often serve on high-level staffs across various commands and embassies, providing critical expertise in planning and executing military operations, liaising with foreign militaries, and conducting political-military activities.

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