140th Anniversary of the U.S. Naval War College

Floor Speech

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Mr. REED. Mr. President, today I rise to offer remarks on behalf of my colleague Senator Whitehouse and myself in recognition of the 140th anniversary of the U.S. Naval War College, which was established on October 6, 1884, in Newport, RI. For the past 14 decades, it has played a critical role in shaping the leadership of our Armed Forces. While the Naval War College's mission has grown over the years, it remains a place of cutting-edge scholarship, helping to strengthen maritime security cooperation, support combat readiness, and develop the future of the Navy.

The Naval War College is a center for research and academic excellence. It provides an advanced course of study for both military officers and civilians and has served as the home of some of our military's most important strategic developments. Students and faculty work closely with the Navy Warfare Development Command and the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group in analyzing national security issues and developing innovative solutions. In addition, the Naval War College has pioneered war-gaming to support combat readiness since its founding and continues to evolve with the modern world offering over 50 events per year to include scenarios beyond the maritime domain such as space, cyber, and humanitarian disaster relief.

The oldest institution of its kind, the Naval War College has played an important role in the education and professional development of some of our country's most accomplished and impactful military officers and civilian leaders. Since the Naval War College's founding in 1884 by Rear Admiral Stephen B. Luce, more than 50,000 students have earned advanced degrees. Most have gone on to have impressive military careers, leading U.S. servicemembers around the globe and serving at the highest echelons of military and civilian leadership. Esteemed graduates include the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, the current Secretary of the Navy; General Randy George, the Chief of Staff of the Army; former Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and many others from every branch of our Armed Forces.

Throughout its 140-year history, the Naval War College has been a forward-looking institution and has consistently worked to break the mold of traditional military strategy and thinking. As the Naval War College celebrates this impressive milestone, Senator Whitehouse and I know that the faculty, staff, and students will continue this tradition of excellence and innovation.

We are proud of the talented men and women who have made the Naval War College the strong and well-respected institution it is today. Along with Senator Whitehouse, I would like to congratulate the entire Naval War College community on this important milestone.

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