Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson announced today that Fleet Master Chief Russell Smith has temporarily assumed the duties of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON).

The announcement comes after Richardson accepted an offer yesterday from Master Chief Steven Giordano to step aside as MCPON.

Smith will continue serving as senior enlisted leader for Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education, an assignment he's held since January 2017.

"Master Chief Smith is an established leader and I thank him for accepting these important temporary duties until I select a new MCPON," said Richardson. "He will represent our Sailors and families well."

The Navy will immediately start the process to select a new MCPON, who serves as the senior enlisted leader of the Navy, and as an advisor to the Chief of Naval Operations and to the Chief of Naval Personnel in matters dealing with enlisted personnel and their families.