Politics. On Point.

from Defense Media Activity ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The United States Navy promoted Michelle Janine Howard to the rank of four-star admiral July 1 during a ceremony at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. Adm. Howard is the first female four-star in the 238 year history of the United States Navy.   Photo/San Diego Times. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus presided over the ceremony and administered the oath of office. Adm. Howard is the first female four-star in the 238 year history of the United States Navy. "Michelle Howard's promotion to the rank of admiral is the result of a brilliant naval career, one I fully expect to continue when she assumes her new role as vice chief of naval operations, but also it is an historic first, an event to be celebrated as she becomes the first female to achieve this position," said Mabus. "Her accomplishment is a direct example of a Navy that now, more than ever, reflects the nat...

The accolades as first lady just keep on coming for First Lady Michelle Obama.   Fresh off her visit to Atlantic City where she and daughters Sasha and Malia were treated to a concert featuring their friend, Beyonce , the first lady was back in town today in time to accept an invitation to serve as the sponsor of the future USS Illinois (SSN 786).  Illinois is a Virginia-class submarine, the Navy’s newest class of attack submarine, and is being built in Groton, Connecticut and Newport News, Virginia. “It’s an honor and a privilege to serve as sponsor of the USS ILLINOIS,” said First Lady Michelle Obama. “I’m always inspired by the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the Navy, as well as the families who support them. This submarine is a tribute to the strength, courage, and determination that our Navy families exhibit every day.” Illinois is expected to join the fleet in late 2015. In sponsoring USS Illinois, the First Lady joins a tradition of First ...