Who carries out inspections and investigations into matters of importance to the Department of the Navy?

The correct choice is the Naval Inspector General, who is specifically tasked with carrying out inspections and investigations into matters of importance to the Department of the Navy. This role is critical in ensuring accountability, compliance, and the overall effectiveness of Navy operations. The Inspector General operates independently and reports directly to the Secretary of the Navy, enabling a level of oversight and scrutiny that is essential for maintaining the integrity and readiness of the Navy.

The responsibilities of the Naval Inspector General include assessing programs, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending improvements, all of which contribute significantly to the operational readiness and management of resources within the Navy. Having a dedicated individual or office for these tasks allows for a focused approach on naval affairs without potential distractions from broader departmental concerns.

Other figures listed, such as the Secretary of the Navy and the Chief of Naval Operations, have broader leadership responsibilities and may not be directly involved in the specific inspections and investigations that the Inspector General conducts. The Inspector General of the Department of Defense does oversee the entire Department of Defense, but the question specifically asks about matters concerning the Department of the Navy, making the Naval Inspector General the most appropriate choice in this context.