Naval History and Heritage Command

22^nd Chief of Naval Operations: 30 June 1982 – 30 June 1986

Admiral Watkins used the term “violent peace” to describe world conditions during his term in office.  The Navy was called upon to conduct operations in Grenada, Lebanon, Gulf of Sidra, Libya, and Persian Gulf.  In late 1983, local Marxists and Cuban troops overthrew the government of Grenada.  With American students on the island under threat, President Ronald Reagan ordered American forces to occupy the island and restore the democratic government.