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Admiral Robert J. Natter, Commander of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, addressed the midshipmen of the Naval ROTC Unit on Feb. 12 in Mendel Hall to discuss the implications and challenges of Sep. 11 as well as those of the potential current conflict. In his current position, Natter is responsible for providing fully trained, combat-ready forces to support United States and NATO commanders in regions of conflict throughout the world. More than 160,000 sailors and Marines man the 162 ships and 1,200 aircraft, as well as the 18 major shore stations of the Atlantic Fleet.

Recognizing the proud heritage of the Villanova unit, Natter noted that two of the eight four-star admirals of the Navy graduated from the program, as well as many other high ranking officers. He reminded the midshipmen, “You have a great opportunity to be here because this is a class school and this is a class ROTC unit.”

In inspiring words Natter described the awesome responsibility and unparalleled burden that leadership entails. Citing the military as the most respected institution in the United States, he recognized those in attendance as those that would assume its many important positions. Describing the opportunity to lead as an honor, he encouraged the group to take pride in the opportunity.

Natter emphasized, “You’re not in the Navy and Marine Corps, you are the Navy and Marine Corps.” Entrusted with both responsibility and accountability, he explained, these leaders would be answerable not only for their own actions, but also for the actions of those under their command.

In light of the potential current-day conflict, Natter said that much of the timetable is dependent upon the diplomatic movements of the coming weeks. Asserting that America will not live in fear of Saddam Hussein’s administration, he assured the audience that the United States has the power necessary and the will to succeed, adding that the greatest challenge will be what remains in Iraq afterward.

Concerning North Korea, he described the regime there as totally unpredictable and pointed to readiness as the only alternative to deal with the situation.

Naming the keys to success, Natter stressed awareness, namely, recognizing the situation and knowing where to entrust faith. He warned the midshipmen to avoid being someone they are not, pushed them to make use of their strengths and minimize their weaknesses, and called upon them to be persistent - never to betray their character and trust.

Concluding, Natter thanked the group for choosing military service: “Service to your country, service to something higher than yourself…, the nation is investing in you knowing that…the return on that investment will pay in great ways.”