Admiral Vernon Clark (USN, Ret.) distinguished professor of government and leadership at Regent University, has been appointed by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to co-chair an investigation on the Fort Hood killings and the military’s systems for identifying potential subversive and destructive activity within the military structure. Retired Army Secretary Togo West will co-chair the investigation with Clark.

Clark teaches in Regent’s Robertson School of Government and its School of Global Leadership & Entrepreneurship, and is also a member of Regent’s Board of Trustees. He is the retired Chief of Naval Operation (CNO), serving as CNO and on the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2000 to 2005. He is the second-longest serving CNO in U.S. history and served for 37 years in the Navy.

“We commend Mr. Gates for choosing Admiral Clark to provide leadership to the Fort Hood investigation. Admiral Clark’s extensive background and training make him a logical choice,” said Regent President-elect Dr. Carlos Campo. “Beyond that, Admiral Clark has a proven record of integrity and wise decision-making that will serve him well in this critical task. The Regent University community wishes him well as he serves this nation yet again.”

According to Secretary Gates, this 45-day emergency investigation will examine personnel, medical, mental health, discharge and other policies throughout the Defense Department. It will also look at ways to improve security and emergency response at Defense Department facilities.

Editor’s note: Information provided via Press Release from Regent U.