Today, the Navy grieves alongside the family and friends of Adm. Thomas B. Hayward as we celebrate his legacy and service to our nation.  He was a Sailor, a warfighter, a man of honor and integrity, who served as the Chief of Naval Operations from 1978 to 1982.  As CNO, he expertly led the Navy during challenging times after the end of the Vietnam War and the transition to an all-volunteer force.  Facing both the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis and renewed Soviet competition in the midst of the Cold War, he rebuilt the combat readiness of the Navy through significant personnel and material investments and restored “Pride in the Navy.”  Focused on operational superiority, he prioritized building sophisticated capabilities to support a global, offensive-minded maritime strategy.  He enlisted in the Navy during World War II and as a naval aviator flew combat missions in Korea and Vietnam.  We truly lost a great leader and shipmate.  We are grateful for your leadership, mentorship and commitment to our Navy and nation.  Fair winds and following seas, Sir.