Hung Cao has been appointed as the acting Navy Secretary, succeeding John Phelan. A former refugee from Vietnam, Cao has a notable military career, having served as a diver and explosive ordnance technician in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is recognized for his outspoken views on military recruiting, advocating for higher standards and a shift in naval warfare strategy, emphasizing the need for modernization to counter emerging threats like hypersonic missiles. His political background includes two unsuccessful campaigns for federal office in Virginia, where he faced criticism for controversial statements. Cao's military service began in 1989 after graduating from the US Naval Academy, and he retired as a captain in 2021. He holds a master's degree in applied physics and has completed fellowships at prestigious institutions, including MIT and Harvard. His personal journey from refugee to a key military position underscores his dedication to service, a sentiment he expressed during his confirmation hearing.