Who is considered the top naval officer in the United States?

The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) is considered the top naval officer in the United States. As the highest-ranking officer in the United States Navy, the CNO is responsible for the command, control, and administration of the Navy. This position includes advising the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of the Navy on naval operations, defense policy, and the readiness of naval forces. The CNO also plays a critical role in strategic planning and operational readiness, ensuring that the Navy is effective in fulfilling its missions.

The other roles mentioned, while integral to the overall structure of the Navy and national defense, do not equate to the top naval commanding position. The Chief of Navy Staff, for instance, is not a term typically used in the U.S. Navy; the Secretary of the Navy oversees the Navy but is a civilian position, and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has responsibilities that encompass multiple branches of the military rather than focusing solely on naval operations. Thus, the role of the CNO stands out as the designated leader and top officer within the Navy hierarchy.