It is with great sadness that U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association inform you of the passing of Admiral James D. Watkins, USN (Retired) Class of 1949. The admiral was the 22nd Chief of Naval Operations, served as U.S. Secretary of Energy during the George Bush Administration, and a 2001 Distinguished Graduate; he passed away July 26. He was 85.
“Few have lived as full or accomplished a life as Adm. Watkins,” said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus. “Although we mourn his passing, we celebrate his accomplishments not only as a consummate Naval Officer and public servant, but also as a man who understood the importance of taking care of the entire Navy family.”
A 1949 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Watkins became CNO June 30, 1982 and served until June 30, 1986 during the height of the Cold War. A career submariner, he also commanded the U.S. Sixth Fleet and later the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
When funeral arrangements have been made, U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association will get the information out. With deepest sympathy to Admiral Watkins’ family and his classmates.
U. S.Naval Academy Alumni Association.
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