Which authority is responsible for establishing a suicide prevention program within the Navy?

The correct answer indicates that the responsibility for establishing a suicide prevention program within the Navy lies with the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations. This position is crucial because it involves overseeing the implementation of various policies and programs related to personnel management and wellbeing, including mental health initiatives like suicide prevention. The Deputy Chief of Naval Operations plays an essential role in coordinating efforts across the Navy to address mental health issues and enhance the overall resilience of service members.

While other positions, such as the Chief of Naval Operations and the Secretary of the Navy, hold significant leadership and policy-making roles, the Deputy Chief takes a more direct involvement in operationalizing these policies into actionable programs. This position is tasked with ensuring that the Navy meets its obligations to support sailors and provides strategic oversight to reduce instances of suicide through comprehensive prevention efforts.

Ultimately, the Deputy Chief's focused engagement on specific programs and initiatives makes this role particularly well-suited to establish and administer the Navy’s suicide prevention strategy.