Who is responsible for establishing a suicide prevention program policy within the Navy?

The responsibility for establishing a suicide prevention program policy within the Navy primarily lies with the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO). The CNO's role involves overseeing policies and programs that affect the entire Navy, which includes ensuring that effective suicide prevention measures are in place. The CNO provides overall guidance and accountability for the mental health and well-being of all personnel, making it essential for the highest levels of naval leadership to address such critical issues.

While other positions, such as the Commanding Officer and the Chief of Naval Personnel, play significant roles in implementing and managing these policies at their respective commands and within the personnel system, the initial establishment of a comprehensive program is a top-level responsibility handled by the CNO. This ensures that the policies are aligned across all levels of command and reflect the Navy's commitment to supporting the mental health of its sailors.