Important People

By Lee Hudson / February 21, 2013 at 5:30 PM

Following a Pentagon announcement that all civilian workers would be furloughed if sequestration budget cuts go into effect March 1, the Navy's top officer released a memorandum yesterday stating that civilians are essential to the service's mission. There are 186,000 civilians who serve in all 50 states and 20 countries overseas, Chief of Naval Operations Jonathan Greenert, wrote.

Navy civilians repair and maintain ships, aircraft and combat systems, plan and manage budgets, and design and engineer the future force, he wrote.

"As we prepare for potential budget shortfalls, I remain focused on supporting our Sailors, Civilians and their Families and funding our most important missions," Greenert noted. "If sequestration begins 1 March, furloughs would begin in late April."

Civilians will continue to play a critical part in the United States' war and peace efforts, even in the face of budget uncertainty and fiscal challenges, he added.

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