Admiral Johnson, 50, is an aviator who had been the vice chief of naval operations since April.

Admiral Johnson and his wife have one daughter.

If the Senate confirms his nomination, Admiral Johnson would be one of the youngest men to head the Navy in this century.

Admiral Johnson, who declined to be interviewed today, receives about $30,000 a year for attending five two-day board meetings annually, Congressional officials said.

Admiral Johnson later served as a fighter squadron commander and air wing commander.

"Guam is no longer the trailer park of the Pacific," Admiral Johnson said of the new military investment.

Admiral Johnson retired form this organization in June 2003.

Admiral Johnson said the crew was exhausted and emotionally drained.

"Admiral Johnson told me he was having trouble determining whether there was or wasn't an attack."

He hated all the pomp of being the commanding officer, but Admiral Johnson had warned him that it was necessary.