NEW YORK - Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Carlos Del Toro visited New York Nov. 9-11 to participate in a number of events related to the 247 th Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day.
Del Toro spoke at a Goldman Sachs Veterans symposium, visited Sailors and Marines aboard USS Arlington (LPD 24), conducted a reenlistment and promotion ceremony at the 9/11Memorial, visited the New York Stock Exchange, attended the Navy League's 120 th Anniversary, and participated in New York City's 103rd Veterans Day Parade and wreath laying ceremony.
"It's great to be back in New York City to celebrate these two momentous occasions," Del Toro said. "I can still remember watching the Veterans Day parade during my years growing up here. These events represent the appreciation everyday citizens of our Nation have for the nearly 20 million veterans that have served in the United States Armed Forces."
In celebration of the Marine Corps 247th birthday Nov. 10, Secretary Del Toro attended morning colors aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Arlington (LPD 24) and served as the guest of honor during a cake cutting ceremony. Later, he visited the 9/11 Memorial to reenlist several Sailors and Marines and promote three Coast Guard officers.
"I was here in New York City on 9/11, so it is a little surreal to be at this memorial," said Del Toro. "The challenges our nation face today may look different from what they were 21 years ago, but this great nation, and the freedom and democracy we stand for, are equally worth defending and fighting for. It is an honor to be back and reenlist and promote the next generation of warfighters."
At Goldman Sachs, Del Toro shared his experiences as a Naval Officer, small business owner, and Secretary of the Navy with Chief Executive Officer David Solomon and a large group of veteran employees. The next day he met with business leaders at the New York Stock Exchange, participated in a Marine Corps birthday cake cutting ceremony on the exchange floor, and rang the closing bell along with Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force.
"I am so incredibly thankful for the skills, education, experience, and resilience I gained during my 22-years of active duty," said Del Toro. "Following my retirement, those attributes were essential during my transition to a small business owner and industry partner of the Department of Defense, and even today as Secretary of the Navy. I encourage everyone who is able, to consider serving in or partnering with our armed services."
Before departing New York, Del Toro was recognized as the recipient of the 2022 Distinguished Service Award at the Navy League's 120 th Anniversary Dinner Nov. 10 and participated in the New York City wreath laying ceremony at Madison Square Park and Veterans Day Parade Nov. 11.
"Every one of you has a role to play in building awareness of the possibilities of maritime military service to the next generation," Del Toro told the Navy League crowd. "Our Sailors and Marines are maintaining that fight today, keeping the watch around the world, deterring adversaries, and protecting our values. To them, and all veterans past and present, your military service means a great deal to this Nation. Thank you to all who swore an oath to serve and protect this country, and the families who serve at your side."
