And for the future, within a matter of a few weeks, I am going to personally designate him as the head of all naval aviation. Clark noted that some areas of greatest concern had seen a turn-around in recent years. He also praised congressional concern for Navy recruiting efforts. Those actions were beginning to pay dividends, Clark said. Our recruiting goals have been met for the past two years, but with a great deal of effort.
Retention is better, but remains below goal.
Our attrition level is too high, and Navy leadership is taking action to reduce it. The CNO said keeping good Sailors in the Navy was a top readiness priority. We are stressing to Navy leadership the importance of fostering a work environment that is more conducive to personal and professional growth. Even with recent retention and recruiting successes, the Navy remains well short of the people it needs, said Clark. Clark called on the committees to fully support funding for an increase in the Navy's manpower end strength.