Are you one of the Navy's next Legislative Fellows?
Navy OLA is accepting applications for 2024. You can learn more about the application requirements at MyNavy HR.
The Navy Legislative Fellows program provides an opportunity for Navy officers, senior enlisted and senior civilian employees to broaden their experience and knowledge in the operations and organization of Congress while enhancing the Navy's ability to fulfill its role in the national policy development process.
Current & Former Fellows Offer their Point of View
Navy Legislative Affairs 101
- Plan, develop, and coordinate relationships between representatives of the Department of the Navy and Members of the United States Congress and their Committee staffs, which are necessary in the transaction of official government business affecting the Navy.
- This important work is done both in the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill.
Navy Legislative Affairs Leaders Throughout History
For more than half a century, decorated, accomplished, well-known Navy leaders have served as, or for the Chief of Legislative Affairs, continuing the legacy of the first CLA, Admiral John S. McCain Jr.
What Former OLA Flag Officers Have to Say
“One of the best experiences I had in the Navy. In all my career I’m not sure I ever learned more in a year. This program afforded me a first-hand view of the processes that provide the Navy with the resources and oversight needed to succeed. As a bonus, the fellowship gave me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a presidential inauguration ceremony and State of the Union speech.”
~ RADM Jim Aiken, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S Fourth Fleet
"Working at OLA provides a unique perspective on all aspects of governance that will enhance your understanding of the relationship between the Legislative and Executive branches, making you more capable as you achieve senior positions within the DoN."
~ RDML Alexis "Lex" Walker, Commander, Naval Recruiting Command
“My year on the Hill as a young Lieutenant Commander, post-department head, remains a career highlight. I had an incredible experience—personally and professionally. Working on a House of Representatives personal staff, I shook the hands of two Presidents, staffed meetings with cabinet level officials and foreign dignitaries, worked on consequential legislation—including the Post-9/11 GI Bill—and contributed directly to work on the most challenging national issues we face. I worked with incredible teams in and out of government, and made friendships that endure to this day.”
~ RDML Luke Frost, Director, Reserve Warfare
Commanding Officers who Led at OLA
From Navy Senate Liaison to Senator
- As the Senate Liaison, his role mostly consisted of providing constituent service and acting as a facilitator among legislators, the Department of Defense, and lobbyists.
- McCain later said the liaison job represented "[my] real entry into the world of politics and the beginning of my second career as a public servant".
- McCain's lively personality and knowledge of military matters made his post in the Russell Senate Office Building a popular gathering spot for senators and staff. He also frequently escorted congressional delegations on overseas trips!
For more information, contact the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs