On Thursday, February 27, US President Trump announced the appointment of Hung Cao, a Vietnamese-American, as the new Under Secretary of the Navy.
Trump wrote on the social platform Truth Social, “I am pleased to announce that Hung Cao will be the next Under Secretary of the Navy for the United States.”
Describing Cao as the epitome of the American dream, Trump highlighted his relentless efforts and commitment to give back to the country that provided his family with a safe haven. Cao, a graduate of the prestigious United States Naval Academy with a master’s degree in physics, embodies the values of hard work and dedication.
Having served for 25 years, Cao has a background as a Special Operations Officer and has hands-on experience in combat situations. Trump expressed confidence in Cao’s ability to fulfill his duties with his wealth of battlefield experience and past work at the Pentagon.
Following Trump’s announcement, Cao released a statement on social media. He emphasized the importance of reinvesting in defense technology development after witnessing the stagnation of technological advancements in countering China due to years of continuing resolutions.
Cao, a retired Navy Colonel, ran as a Republican candidate for the US Senate in Virginia last year. He arrived in the US as a Vietnamese refugee in 1975, spent his childhood years in West Africa, and later settled in Virginia, becoming the first graduating class of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.
With a background from the US Naval Academy, specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Deep-Sea Diving as a Special Operations Officer, Cao has undertaken missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, among other places.
Apart from combat duties, Cao was entrusted with managing a $140 billion Navy budget, showcasing his diverse skill set and leadership capabilities.
Cao, together with his wife April, has five children and currently resides in Purcellville, Virginia. He actively participates in community and church activities, reflecting his commitment to service and engagement with the local community.