Who was the first enlisted person to advance to the position of Chief of Naval Operations?

The first enlisted person to advance to the position of Chief of Naval Operations was Admiral Jeremy "Mike" Boorda. His unique path to this high-ranking position is significant in the history of the Navy, as it showcases a career that began with enlisted service and culminated in the highest operational command within the Navy.

Boorda began his naval career as an enlisted sailor and worked his way up through the ranks based on his skill, leadership, and dedication. This journey from the deckplates to the pinnacle of Navy leadership exemplifies the opportunities available in a military career, particularly the potential for enlisted sailors to achieve high-ranking positions. His experiences contributed to a depth of understanding of the enlisted force that informed his leadership decisions as CNO.

This aspect of Boorda’s career is often highlighted as inspirational for many in the Navy, reinforcing the value of hard work and leadership at all levels within the naval hierarchy.