Who is not found in the operational chain of command?

The Secretary of the Navy is not part of the operational chain of command, which primarily encompasses individuals who are directly involved in the execution of military operations. The operational chain of command typically includes the Commandant of the Marine Corps, who is the highest-ranking officer in the Marine Corps and responsible for all operational decisions and policies. The Marine Corps General, as a senior officer, is also part of this chain, involved in commanding forces and executing the missions.

The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, while not a commander, plays a crucial role in advising on enlisted matters and maintaining morale, standards, and discipline within the ranks.

In contrast, the Secretary of the Navy is a civilian position responsible for overall policy and administration of the Navy and Marine Corps but does not directly engage in operational command. This distinction underscores the separation between military and civilian leadership roles within the structure of the Department of Defense.