By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart

NPS alumnus and Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy International Programs (NIPO) Rear Adm. James Shannon takes a question from Lt. Jeffrey Miller after a Secretary of the Navy Guest Lecture (SGL) in King Auditorium, Oct. 15. Shannon took some tough questions from students in addition to meeting with NPS faculty and perusing student theses.

"If a guy in my position can't answer tough questions, then neither he nor I belong in this position," said Shannon. "I'm glad the students challenged me. They asked great questions … and they were topical which tells me that they are really doing their homework here."

Throughout Shannon's address to students he discussed leadership and current trends in international programs. He also shared fond memories of his time at NPS noting that it was not too long ago that he was on the other side of the lectern.

"I'm an alumnus of this fine institution, [being here] is like coming home," said Shannon. "I look out into the audience and I remember the student body that I served with … I'm glad the energy is still here."

Finally, Shannon spoke about the value that NPS offers the Navy, referring to the institution as one of the Navy's "three crown jewels" noting its place among the Naval Academy and the Naval War College.

"We have to take care of and nurture these institutions and make sure we are sending all of our best and brightest to them. They will take the world's greatest Navy far into the future," he said.