Franchetti studied journalism, among other things, but soon switched to Defense. Biden credits her for her 38 years of experience, which included commanding aircraft carriers and becoming the second woman ever to become a four-star admiral in the Navy. “Throughout her career, Admiral Franchetti has demonstrated extensive expertise on both the policy and operational arenas,” said the president.
In September last year, Franchetti was sworn in to the second-highest post in the Navy. Yet another admiral, Samuel Paparo, was initially a favourite. If the Senate approves her promotion, she would be the first woman on the influential eight-member Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The General Staff includes, in addition to the President and Vice President, the commanders of the US Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, National Guard and Space Forces. The US Coast Guard is officially also an armed force and is also led by a woman. Yet Admiral Linda Fagan is not a member of the General Staff because the Coast Guard is not under the Department of Defense, but under Homeland Security.