 In November 1952, Riley assumed command of attack aircraft carrier and participated in the training of pilots in carrier operations off of the Virginia Capes and Mayport, Florida.He sailed for a tour of duty in the Mediterranean in April 1953 and visited Spain, and took part in the NATO Exercise Black Wave with Deputy Secretary of Defense R. M. Kyes on board as an observer.Riley was detached in August 1953 and assumed duty as Chief of Staff to Commander, Carrier Division Two under Rear Admiral Hugh H. Goodwin.