Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert addressed questions from Seoul-based Sailors and Navy families during an all-hands call at U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan, May 30.

Greenert's stop in Seoul was part of a weeklong visit to Japan and Korea to strengthen Alliances with regional military and political leaders plus engage U.S. Navy personnel.

The CNO kicked off the Seoul all-hands call by frocking seven petty officers from the recent Navy advancement cycle. Greenert then discussed topics including the Asia-Pacific rebalance and the importance of forward deployed Naval presence.

"If you were to summarize what the Asian Pacific rebalance is about, it's about forces, but it's also about capabilities," said Greenert. "It's about putting our most modern and capable ships out here. However, the most important aspect is our relationships. It's about engaging and assuring our allies in this region that we will be there."

Greenert also took questions from Sailors on the importance of realigning the fleet's manning levels through initiatives like the Enlisted Early Transition Program and maintaining military education programs.

"We all have to leave the Navy eventually," said Greenert. "What we would like to do is offer you the opportunity to stay longer, if you choose to, and develop some good professional skills along the way."

The CNO concluded the event by expressing his appreciation to Korea-based Sailors, civilian employees, and their families for their dedication in strengthening the U.S.-Republic of Korea alliance.

"You are ambassadors and you are also instruments of diplomacy and defense," said Greenert. "Please don't ever underestimate the significance of what you do out here in shaping things and making things work."

The Chief of Naval Operations is the senior military officer of the Department of the Navy. The CNO is a four-star admiral and is responsible to the Secretary of the Navy for the command, utilization of resources, and operating efficiency of the operating forces of the Navy and of the Navy shore activities assigned by the Secretary.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea is the regional commander for the U.S. Navy in the Republic of Korea and provides expertise on naval matters to area military commanders, including the Commander for the United Nations Command, the Combined Forces Command, and Commander, U.S. Forces Korea.