The Fourth of July parade’s grand marshal this year is Vice Adm. John F. G. Wade, the commander of United States Third Fleet that all three carriers home-ported at Naval Air Station North Island are assigned to.
A career Surface Warfare officer, Wade has completed multiple deployments including Desert Storm, Southern Watch and Iraqi Freedom.
He has also served as personal staff to the Chief of Naval Operations, chief of staff to Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and the director of operations for the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.
Wade assumed duties as commander of the Third Fleet in June 2024.
Q: Why did you decide to join the Navy?
Adm. Wade: I joined the Navy because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself — to serve my country and make a difference. I come from a family with four generations of Navy service. My grandfather, father and now my two sons have all worn the uniform. So for me, it was personal. The Naval Academy gave me that foundation, but it was the sense of purpose — the opportunity to lead, to grow, and to serve alongside incredible people — that drew me in.
Q: What kept you in the Navy for all these years?
Adm. Wade: The people. Without question. I’ve had the privilege of serving with some of the most dedicated, talented and courageous men and women you’ll ever meet — both in uniform and out. I’ve stayed because of the relationships, the mission and the chance to mentor and help develop the next generation. Every tour has taught me something.
And every time I thought about what was next, I kept coming back to the same answer: there’s still more work to do.
Q: For you personally, what has been the most important part of your job?
Adm. Wade: The growth and development of our sailors. That’s the part that energizes me every day. Whether it’s helping them reach their professional goals, or simply giving them the tools to succeed in life — that’s the most rewarding part of this job. Ships, systems and aircraft are important, but it’s our people who make the difference. They are our war fighting edge, and I’m honored to lead and serve them.
Q: What does service mean to you?
Adm. Wade: Service is about commitment — to our nation, to each other, and to something greater than ourselves. It’s showing up when it’s hard. It’s putting the mission and your teammates before your own comfort. And it’s being there — not just when things are going well — but especially when they’re not. Service is sacrifice, yes. But it’s also pride. It’s legacy. And for me, it’s deeply personal.
Q: Is there a story of a moment or experience that has stood out to you in all your years that has changed how you view your job, the military, your life?
Adm. Wade: One that comes to mind is when I led Joint Task Force–Red Hill in Hawaii. We were tasked with a no-fail mission — to safely defuel a massive World War II-era fuel storage facility sitting above the island’s sole aquifer. It was complex, high-stakes and deeply emotional for the community. That experience reminded me that leadership isn’t just about executing a mission — it’s about listening, building trust and doing the right thing, even when it’s hard. It reinforced to me that empathy and integrity are not soft skills — they are mission-critical.
Q: What does celebrating the Fourth of July mean to you and why is it important to you to celebrate?
Adm. Wade: The Fourth of July is a time to reflect on the values our nation was founded on — freedom, independence and the belief that we are stronger together. It’s also a reminder of the sacrifices made by generations before us — and those being made today — to preserve those freedoms. For me, it’s a chance to pause, to honor that service, and to reconnect with the people and principles we’re fighting for.
Q: What does having independence and freedom in this country mean to you?
Adm. Wade: It means opportunity. It means responsibility. And it means never taking it for granted. Independence gives us the chance to chart our own path — to speak freely, worship freely and pursue our dreams. But it also requires us to protect those freedoms for others — especially those who can’t defend themselves. Freedom isn’t free — and I’ve seen firsthand the cost. That’s why it matters so much.
Q: Is there anything else you want to say about service or about the Fourth of July that I haven’t asked you?
Adm. Wade: I’d just say this: While we often celebrate the Fourth with fireworks and parades, let’s not forget the deeper meaning. Let’s remember the men and women deployed around the world who won’t be home with their families. Let’s take a moment to thank those who serve and those who support them. And let’s recommit ourselves to the values that make this country worth serving — and worth celebrating.
Get Ready for Fourth of July!
Are you ready to celebrate Independence Day at Coronado’s Fourth of July festivities? Visit our CFOJ webpage at thecoronadonews.com/fourth-of-july/, where you’ll find all the information you need to make this year’s celebration unforgettable. Check out local hotel accommodations, restaurant recommendations, and more!
