A civilian appointed by the President, and reviewed and confirmed by the U.S.
Senate. The person appointed must not have been a commissioned officer on active duty
within the last five years. The SECNAV is responsible for, and has the authority under
Title 10 of the United States Code, to conduct all the affairs of the Department of the
Navy, including: recruiting, organizing, supplying, equipping, training, mobilizing,
and demobilizing. The Secretary also oversees the construction, outfitting, and repair
of naval ships, equipment and facilities. SECNAV is responsible for the formulation and
implementation of policies and programs that are consistent with the national security
policies and objectives established by the President and the Secretary of
Defense.