President Trump Selects Decorated Navy Combat Vet Hung Cao for Undersecretary Role [WATCH]

Hung Cao, a retired Navy Special Operations officer and former Senate candidate, has been appointed as Under Secretary of the U.S. Navy in President Donald Trump’s administration.

Cao, a Vietnamese refugee whose family fled communism, has been recognized for his service and dedication to American values.

Trump announced the appointment on Truth Social on February 27, writing, “I am pleased to announce that Hung Cao will be our next United States Under Secretary of the Navy.”

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The president praised Cao’s military background and commitment to the country, calling him “the embodiment of the American Dream.”

Cao’s journey to this position began in Saigon, Vietnam.

His family fled the country just before the fall of the capital to communist forces in 1975.

After arriving in the United States, he pursued a military career, attending the U.S. Naval Academy and later earning a master’s degree in physics.

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Cao served for 25 years as a Special Operations officer, gaining extensive experience in combat and at the Pentagon.

Trump highlighted Cao’s background in his statement, emphasizing his qualifications for the role.

“Hung worked tirelessly to make proud the country that gave his family a home,” Trump said.

“With Hung’s experience both in combat and in the Pentagon, he will get the job done. Congratulations to Hung, and his wonderful family!”

Cao responded to the announcement with a brief but resolute statement: “Thank you, Mr. President. It’s time to get to work.”

Thank you, Mr. President. It’s time to get to work. pic.twitter.com/6DfHr91aTK

— Hung Cao (@HungCao_VA) February 28, 2025

Cao ran for the U.S. Senate in Virginia in 2024, gaining national attention for his speeches and strong stance on issues affecting the country.

His remarks at the Republican National Convention resonated with conservatives who appreciated his unapologetic approach to preserving American values.

During his campaign, Cao often spoke about the dangers of losing the freedoms that his family had sought in America.

“My family was one of the last to escape Saigon before it fell to the Communists. I know what it’s like to lose your country. We are losing ours today,” he warned.

He urged voters to take action in defense of the nation’s future.

I’m Hung Cao. My family was one of the last to escape Saigon before it fell to the Communists. I know what it’s like to lose your country. We are losing ours today.

November 5th is Liberation Day. President Trump and I will save America and make it great again.

Watch below pic.twitter.com/j7uJ8P99jO

— Hung Cao (@HungCao_VA) May 31, 2024

Though he did not win the Senate race, his influence in conservative circles remained strong, leading to his selection for a leadership role in the Trump administration.

On Election Day, Cao shared an image of his elderly mother casting her ballot—a moment that symbolized how far his family had come from escaping the Viet Cong to now seeing him take a senior leadership role in the U.S. Navy.

This is the American Dream come full circle.

It was an honor to take my mom to vote this morning.

Virginia — polls close at 7PM. If you haven’t already, get out and vote! pic.twitter.com/onSkskyCYe

— Hung Cao (@HungCao_VA) November 5, 2024

His appointment comes at a time when the U.S. military faces challenges from political agendas and declining recruitment.

Many conservatives have called for stronger leadership within the military to restore its focus on national defense and preparedness.

As Under Secretary of the Navy, Cao will play a key role in shaping the branch’s policies and ensuring that it remains committed to its mission.

With his extensive experience and dedication to American values, his supporters believe he is well-prepared for the task ahead.

“It’s time to get to work,” Cao said—words that reflect the mission-driven approach he has carried throughout his career.

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