MONTEREY, Calif. – Information Warfare Training Command (IWTC) Monterey welcomed Rear Adm. John A. Okon, commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, for a visit with staff and students, May 12

Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command’s mission is to define and apply the physical environment, from the bottom of the ocean to the stars, to ensure that the U.S. Navy has the freedom of action to deter aggression, maintain freedom of the seas and win wars.

During his visit, Okon spoke to IWTC Monterey personnel, most of whom are initial-entry Sailors at an all hands call. Upon graduating from “A” school at the Presidio of Monterey, most of the Sailors will move on to support the information warfare community and the fleet.

Okon energized the crew with his remarks, highlighting where information warriors must have an effect in a future conflict.

“Too often in our Navy, we [information warfare] have been considered enablers,” said Okon. “We are information warriors. The next war will be won or lost with us.”

He also reinforced the importance of resiliency and toughness, humbly remarking upon his own commitment to “be a 10” for his shipmates even when there are days he falls short. He challenged Sailors to strive to become the best versions of themselves in order to serve their country.

“Encouragement to excel and build strength is making a difference for our newest Sailors,” said Cmdr. Josie Moore, commanding officer of IWTC Monterey. “They need to appreciate how it will matter in a future conflict, and they need to be ready.”

Immediately following his remarks, Okon responded to thoughtful questions ranging from ocean science endeavors to how the Navy is exploring new, innovative information warfare capabilities. He also commented on how inspiring the Navy’s newest Sailors are proving to be in their desire to learn and engage.

IWTC Monterey, as part of the Center for Information Warfare Training (CIWT), provides a continuum of foreign language training to Navy personnel, which prepares them to conduct information warfare across the full spectrum of military operations.

With four schoolhouse commands, a detachment, and training sites throughout the United States and Japan, CIWT trains approximately 26,000 students every year, delivering trained information warfare professionals to the Navy and joint services. CIWT also offers more than 200 courses for cryptologic technicians, intelligence specialists, information systems technicians, electronics technicians, and officers in the information warfare community.

For more on Information Warfare Training Command Monterey, visit https://www.public.navy.mil/netc/centers/ciwt/IWTCmonterey/ and http://www.monterey.army.mil/Service_Units/IWTC_Monterey.html, or find them on Facebook.

For more news from Center for Information Warfare Training domain, visit https://www.public.navy.mil/netc/centers/ciwt/, www.facebook.com/NavyCIWT, or www.twitter.com/NavyCIWT.