 The Navy promoted its first female four-star admiral July 1st during a ceremony at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial in Washington, D.C. Siknav said Admiral Michelle Howard's promotion is the result of a brilliant naval career. We should not make decisions based on anything, but how well you perform in the Navy on anything, except your leadership ability, your skill, how well people will follow you. Siknav emphasized Howard's commitment, fortitude and integrity in her 32 years of service. Howard relieved Admiral Mark Ferguson as the 38th Vice Chief of Naval Operations. Ferguson is appointed to become Commander of Naval Forces Europe Africa and Allied Joint Forces Command in Naples, Italy. From the Defense Media Activity, I'm Petty Officer Jen Blake.