The nomination of Hung Cao as Under Secretary of the Navy offers a compelling story of resilience, ambition, and dedication, tracing his path from refugee to military leader within the United States.
Key Insights
- President Donald Trump nominated Hung Cao as the next Under Secretary of the Navy.
- Trump described Hung Cao as “the embodiment of the American Dream.”
- Hung Cao, with 25 years of Navy service, is a Navy captain from Loudoun County.
- Cao has been a vocal critic of the Navy’s diversity initiatives.
- His family fled Vietnam in 1975 and he is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate.
Nomination of a Military Leader Inspired by American Values
President Donald Trump has nominated Hung Cao as the next Under Secretary of the Navy, signaling a significant milestone in Cao’s remarkable journey. Cao bears a rich legacy of 25 years in military service, a journey that began with him seeking asylum from Vietnam. Trump’s announcement recognizes Cao’s embodiment of the American Dream, as Trump stated, “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.”
Prior to this nomination, Cao’s political pursuits included a run against Democratic Senator Tim Kaine in 2024 and a congressional bid in Virginia’s 10th district in 2022. Despite electoral setbacks, his dedication to the country has never wavered. Cao’s opposition to diversity measures has garnered attention, with Cao remarking, “When you’re using a drag queen to recruit for the Navy…what we need is alpha males and alpha females…”
Cao’s Tenure Defined by Service and Conviction
Cao’s military career, marked by commendable service as a Special Operations Officer, brings an experienced voice to the Department of the Navy. His academic accomplishments further complement his military credentials, with Cao having graduated from the United States Naval Academy and also earning a Master’s Degree in Physics. Throughout his assignments, Cao has tackled both combat and strategic challenges at the Pentagon. This extensive experience is expected to shape his approach as he prepares to take on this new role.
The nomination comes at a time when the military faces scrutiny over its diversity policies, issues that Cao has not shied away from addressing. President Trump’s nomination aligns with his directive to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives instituted under the Biden administration. As Cao awaits Senate confirmation, the anticipation of his role in redefining naval leadership grows.
A Seminal Moment for the Vietnamese-American Community
Hung Cao’s story resonates deeply within the Vietnamese-American community, symbolizing a realization of aspirations often associated with the American Dream. Cao’s family fled Vietnam in 1975, and Cao’s success underscores the opportunities afforded by the United States to those seeking refuge and a new beginning. With Senate approval pending, his potential leadership as Under Secretary of the Navy stands as a testament to determination and embodies the ideals cherished by many Americans.
The reception of his nomination has been overwhelmingly positive across social media platforms, with many expressing support for his appointment.
Sources
1. Trump Nominates Hung Cao to Be Under Secretary of Navy
