Today, I was thrilled to swear in Gen Eric M. Smith as the 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps. This day is one of the greatest honors I’ve had in my two years as Secretary of the Navy. I was extremely proud to nominate Gen Smith for the job, and I am beyond confident that Gen Smith will faithfully fulfill the duties of the office.

Today, we celebrate this moment with Gen Smith, his wife Trish, and their family in recognition of their continued service to our Marine Corps and Nation. I look forward to working with Gen Smith to strengthen our maritime dominance, build a culture of warfighting excellence, and enhance strategic partnerships, while leading our one Navy-Marine Corps team.

While we celebrate this day, we must remember the hundreds of apolitical military officers and their families who still have their lives on hold because of the blanket block on their nominations in the Senate. This hold erodes readiness and causes undue uncertainty for those who have dedicated decades of their lives to selflessly support and defend the constitution of the United States against all enemies – foreign and domestic. It is time to end the hold and confirm our nominees.