Navy Change of Command Ceremonies

Images depict formal change of command ceremonies in naval settings, featuring military personnel in dress whites, podiums, and ceremonial actions, conveying a sense of duty and tradition.

221007-N-DW158-1045 SEA OF JAPAN (Oct. 7, 2022) Rear Adm. Buzz Donnelly, middle, Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, Capt. Fred Goldhammer, left, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), and Command Master Chief Jeremy Douglas, Ronald Reagans command master chief, render honors as Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, is piped aboard during a change of command ceremony in the Sea of Japan, Oct 7. During the ceremony, Goldhammer was properly relieved by Capt. Daryle Cardone as the commanding officer. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

221208-N-YF131-1023 SAN DIEGO (Dec. 8, 2022) Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, commander, Naval Air Forces, salutes as he passes through sideboys during the Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing, Pacific change of command ceremony held in the hangar bay of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 41. HSMWPs mission is to man, train, and equip squadrons, Naval Aviators and Naval Aircrewmen to fly and fight the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the world's most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 20, 2022) Rear Adm. J.T. Anderson, from Fayetteville, N.C., commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3, gives a letter of address during a change of command ceremony aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

221007-N-DW158-1045 SEA OF JAPAN (Oct. 7, 2022) Rear Adm. Buzz Donnelly, middle, Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, Capt. Fred Goldhammer, left, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), and Command Master Chief Jeremy Douglas, Ronald Reagans command master chief, render honors as Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, is piped aboard during a change of command ceremony in the Sea of Japan, Oct 7. During the ceremony, Goldhammer was properly relieved by Capt. Daryle Cardone as the commanding officer. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

KINGS BAY, Ga. (Sep. 16, 2022) Capt. Eric Cole (left), incoming commodore of Submarine Squadron Twenty, salutes Capt. John Cage (right), outgoing commodore, relieving him of his duties during a change of command ceremony held at the chapel onboard Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ashley Berumen (Released)

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (July 8, 2022) - Capt. Steven Stasick is piped ashore during the Officer in Charge of Construction change of command ceremony at Andersen Air Force Base July 8. Capt. Robert Stiles relieved Stasick as the commanding officer.

220609-N-ML137-1085 KEKAHA, HI (June 9, 2022) Capt. Timothy Young, outgoing commanding officer of Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands, is relieved by Capt. Brett Stevenson during a change of command ceremony in the hangar bay. Rear Adm. Timothy Kott, Commander, Navy Region Hawai`i, officiates the turnover. PMRF is the worlds largest instrumented multi-environment range capable of supporting surface, subsurface, air and space operations simultaneously.

ST. LOUIS (Aug. 19, 2022) Cmdr. Benjamin Fischer, the outgoing commanding officer of Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Mid America, salutes Cmdr. Joshua Oakes, the incoming commanding officer of NTAG Mid America, during a change of command ceremony at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, Aug. 19, 2022. After the ceremony, Fischer retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of naval service. NTAG Mid America, part of Navy Recruiting Command, recruits the next generation of Navy Sailors throughout areas encompassing Missouri, Kansas, central and southern Illinois, and a portion of Kentucky.

220519-N-OL632-1224 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (May 19, 2022) Capt. Dave Pollard relieves Capt. Robert Aguilar as commanding officer of USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during a change of command ceremony May 19, 2022. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable war fighting capability as the flagship of the carrier strike group which maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

Capt. Gregory H. Magee (left), Rear Adm. Brendan C. McPherson (center) and Capt. José E. Díaz (right) during the Sector San Juan Change of Command Ceremony in San Juan, Puerto Rico June 16, 2022. During the ceremony, Capt. Diaz relieved Capt. Magee as the commander of Sector San Juan. Capt. Diaz will be responsible for leading Coast Guard forces in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and the oversight of a 1.3 million square nautical mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Caribbean. Coast Guard Photo by Ricardo Castrodad

Cmdr. Nicholas Meyers, the first commanding officer of the crew of the future USS Idaho (SSN 799), is piped ashore following a change of command ceremony that was held Friday, Dec. 2 at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut. Cmdr. Meyers was relieved by Cmdr. Randall Leslie at the ceremony.

PANAMA CITY, FL (June 10, 2022) 220610-N-OT328-0256 Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center Change of Command ceremony. Commander Erich Frandrup was relieved by Commander Troy Lawson during a change of command ceremony.

220923-N-NU634-037NORFOLK (Oct. 23, 2022) - Rear Adm. Huan Nguyen, deputy commander Cyber Engineering, NAVSEA, gives remarks during the decommissioning ceremony of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Hué City (CG 66) after 31 years of naval service. Following its decommissioning, the ship is slated to be towed to the Navys Inactive Ships facility in Philadelphia, Pa., where it will be in a Logistical Support Asset status.

Cmdr. Anthony Bryant, executive officer, USS Normandy, foreground, monitors proceedings on the bridge of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) as the ship pulls into its namesake region of France while underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Nov. 14, 2022. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

120525-N-YC505-044NEW YORK (May 25, 2012) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Johnathan Greenert gives coins to reenlistees in the hangar bay of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) during Fleet Week New York 2012. Fleet Week New York 2012 marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nationÕs sea services. The seven-day event coincides with the commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and will host more than 6,000 service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard team in addition to coalition ships from around the world.

Outgoing Mackinaw commanding officer Cmdr. Kristen Serumgard, left, shares a handshake with incoming commanding officer Cmdr. Jeannette Greene as Capt. Eric Doucette, Ninth Coast Guard District Chief of Staff, and chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Kenneth Jewell, far right, look on July 7, 2022. The change of command ceremony, a time-honored military tradition, marked the total transfer of authority and responsibility for the Great Lakes' largest Coast Guard cutter to the incoming captain. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer John Masson.

060808-N-4965F-004. Base: Naval Station, Pearl Harbor State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220902-G-TW079-675SINGAPORE (Sep. 2, 2022) Capt. Tim LaBenz, right, relieves Capt. Tom Ogden as commodore of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7 during the change of command ceremony aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) in Singapore, Sept. 2, 2022. Charleston, part of DESRON 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. As the U.S. Navys destroyer squadron forward-deployed in Southeast Asia, DESRON 7 serves as the primary tactical and operational commander of littoral combat ships rotationally deployed to Singapore, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7s Sea Combat Commander, and builds partnerships through training exercises and military-to-military engagements.

GREAT LAKES, Il. (May 20, 2022) Cmdr. John Carter, Naval Station Great Lakes chaplain, has a retirement ceremony in honor of more than 20 years of service. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navys largest training installation and the home of the Navys only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports over 50 tenant commands and elements as well as over 20,000 Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation.

220929-N-ZS023-1147 SAN DIEGO (Sept 29, 2022) Cmdr. Ralph Lufkin, center, commanding officer of Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Manchester (LCS 14) Blue Crew delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony on the ships flight deck, Sept. 29. LCS are fast, agile, mission-focused platforms designed to operate in near-shore environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. LCS support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.

220607-N-VQ947-1007 SAN DIEGO (June 7, 2022) Quartermaster 1st Class Todd Marriott, left, presents a command ball cap to a midshipman from the U.S. Naval Academy aboard San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland (LPD 27), June 7, 2022. Portland is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship homeported in San Diego.

Captain Tracy Issac, executive officer Navy Medicine Operational Training Command (NMOTC), coordinates and directs the dress whites uniform inspection, Apr. 07. Navy Medicine Operational Training Command (NMOTC)is comprised of six nationwide detachments that offer specialized medical training in the fields ofaviation, aviation survival, surface and undersea warfare, expeditionary and special operationsmedicine.

Vice Adm. Andrew J. Tiongson, Coast Guard Pacific Area commander, presents Capt. Jason H. Ryan, commanding officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Waesche, with an award for successful completion of his tour as commanding officer during a change-of-command ceremony in Alameda, California, July 15, 2022. U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Ens. Andrew Suh.

060929-N-1688B-094. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

050929-N-1332Y-103. Base: Naval Hospital, Yokosuka Country: Japan (JPN)

Rear Adm. Andrew M. Sugimoto replaced Rear Adm. Brian K. Penoyer as commander of the Eleventh Coast Guard District during a change-of-command ceremony presided over by Vice Adm. Michael F. McAllister on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., June 24, 2022. The change-of-command ceremony is a time-honored tradition that represents a total transfer of responsibility, authority and accountability from one individual to another.

220805-N-GR655-0050 GROTON, Conn. (August 5, 2022) - Cmdr. Garth Storz, outgoing commanding officer for the USS Colorado (SSN 788), delivers remarks during a change-of-command ceremony in Groton, Connecticut, Aug. 5, 2022. The Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS Colorado and crew operate under Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) FOUR and its primary mission is to provide fast-attack submarines that are ready, willing, and able to meet the unique challenges of undersea combat and deployed operations in unforgiving environments across the globe.

220603-N-XZ205-2057SAN DIEGO (June 3, 2022) Rear Adm. Timothy Weber, former Commander, Naval Medical Forces Pacific (NMFP) (ret.), gives remarks during a retirement ceremony at Admiral Kidd Catering and Conference Center, Naval Base Point Loma, Harbor Drive Annex June 3. The retirement ceremony was held for Capt. Catherine Bayne, the San Diego Markets former Deputy Director (far left), who served the Navy for 32 years. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

Capt. Warren Judge, commanding officer of U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., hosts a Sunset Parade on base to honor the Coast Guards 232nd birthday and recognize regional operational commands, Aug. 7, 2022. This year the base highlighted our regional operational commands. In attendance was Capt. Jonathan Theel (left), the Sector Delaware Bay commanding officer, and Capt. Jeffrey Graham (center), the Air Station Atlantic City commanding officer.

220914-N-ZS023-1019 SAN DIEGO (Sept 14, 2022) Leadership of Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Coronado (LCS 4) stand at attention during a decommissioning ceremony, Sept 14. Coronado has been a test and training ship, and was key in developing the operational concepts foundational to the current configuration and deployment of todays LCS fleet. The LCS remain fast, agile, and networked surface combatants, designed to operate in near-shore environments, capable of open-ocean tasking and winning against 21st-century coastal threats.

New York Rear Admiral Lawrence Weill, speaks after taking command of the 2,700-member New York Naval Militia, during ceremonies at New York National Guard Headquarters in Latham, New York on April 29, 2022. Weill, a retired Navy Reserve officer, and Walworth, New York leads the largest state naval force in the country.

Cmdr. Jeremy Greenwood relieved Cmdr. Malcolm Belt inspects the crew aboard USCGC Legare (WMEC 912) during a change of command ceremony in Portsmouth, Virginia, on June 14, 2022. This change of command comes at the heels of a very successful patrol in the Eastern Pacific. The crew worked with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partner nation agencies to interdict over $171 million of illicit narco cs.

Cdr. Lauren Majchrzak, former Commanding Officer of Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Nashville, informs Commodore, Navy Recruiting Region East, Capt. Rajashaker Bob Reddy, that she has been properly relieved as commanding officer during a change of command ceremony at NTAG Nashville headquarters in Nashville,Tenn. NTAG Nashville includes 46 Navy recruiting stations across the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Georgia covering 138,000 square miles.

Cmdr. Nicholas Meyers, the first commanding officer of the crew of the future USS Idaho (SSN 799), is congratulated by Capt. John Stafford, commander of Submarine Squadron 4, after being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his time at the helm of Idaho. Cmdr. Meyers was relieved by Cmdr. Randall Leslie during the change of command ceremony that was held Friday, Dec. 2 at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut.

BALTIMORE (Sept. 9, 2022) Rear Adm. Nancy Lacore, Commandant Naval District Washington, middle, talks with Cmdr. Alfonza White, commanding officer of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul (LCS 21), left, and Cmdr. Brian Kemmitz prior to a Women in Business event in support of Maryland Fleet Week and Flyover Baltimore, Sept. 9, 2022. Maryland Fleet Week and Flyover Baltimore 2022 is an annual public event that celebrates the contributions and maritime capabilities of the U.S. sea services.

Rear Admiral Brendan McLane, Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic is piped aboard during a retirement ceremony for Captain Zoah Scheneman. The ceremony was held on the fantail of the decommissioned Iowa-Class Battleship, USS Wisconsin (BB 64) and hosted by the Hampton Roads Naval Museum. Captain Scheneman served aboard the Battleship from 1988 to 1991 during Wisconsins reactivation and subsequent deployment to support Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm respectively.

Adm. Linda Fagan relieves Adm. Karl Schultz as the 27th commandant of the Coast Guard during a change of command ceremony at Coast Guard headquarters June 1, 2022. Fagan is the first woman service chief of any U.S. military service.

PANAMA CITY, FL (June 10, 2022) 220610-N-OT328-0164 Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center Change of Command ceremony. Commander Erich Frandrup was relieved by Commander Troy Lawson during a change of command ceremony.

010412-N-9760B-007. Subject Operation/Series: VALIANT RETURN Base: Hickam Air Force Base State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: USPACOM

U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Thomas Cooper and Capt. Christopher Huberty conduct crew inspection during a change of command ceremony on Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco on June 17, 2022. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Brian K. Penoyer presided over the ceremony, where Huberty took command of approximately 175 Air Station San Francisco personnel and eight MH-65 Dolphin helicopters.

Naval Medical Forces Pacific Commander, Rear Adm. Guido Valdes presides over the retirement of Capt. Christopher Tepera at the Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Pearl Harbor (NMRTC-PH) Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony on June 23, 2022 at the Hickam Officer's Club, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Capt. (Ret.) Christopher Tepera retired after 26 years of U.S. Naval service and relinquished command to Capt. Victor Diaz.

210927-N-GR655-0046 NEW LONDON, Conn. (May 20, 2022) - Cmdr. Bill Dull, commanding officer of the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Alaska (SSBN 732) Blue Crew, delivers remarks as the guest speaker at a change-of-command ceremony for the USS Hartford (SSN 768) at Fort Trumbull, New London, Conn., May 20. Cmdr. Kevin Behm relieved Cmdr. Stephen Wiegel as commanding officer. The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Hartford and crew operate under Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) FOUR and its primary mission is to provide fast-attack submarines that are ready, willing, and able to meet the unique challenges of undersea combat and deployed operations in unforgiving environments across the globe.

220603-N-XZ205-2103SAN DIEGO (June 3, 2022) Capt. Catherine Bayne, the San Diego Markets former deputy director (left), receives a National Ensign during her retirement ceremony at Admiral Kidd Catering and Conference Center, Naval Base Point Loma, Harbor Drive Annex June 3. Bayne served in the Navy for 32 years. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) San Diego's mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC San Diego employs more than 6,000 active duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere.

The Coast Guard First District holds a change-of-command ceremony Friday, May 13, 2022 at Faneuil Hall in Boston to bid farewell to Rear Adm. Thomas G. Allan Jr. and welcome Rear Adm. John W. Mauger as commander of the First District. Vice Adm. Steven D. Poulin, Coast Guard Atlantic Area Commander, presided over the ceremony. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored tradition that represents the transfer of one commanding officer to another as well as the transfer of absolute authority and responsibility for a military unit.

KINGS BAY, Ga. (May 20, 2022) Commander, Submarine Group Ten Rear Adm. John Spencer presents Capt. Theron Davis, outgoing commanding officer of the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) (Gold), with the Legion of Merit during a change of command ceremony held at the World War II memorial pavilion onboard Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. Davis is relieved by Capt. John Roussakies. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ashley Berumen (Released)

040609-F-3050V-114. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MDW

Cmdr. Randall Leslie is piped ashore following a traditional change of command ceremony that was held Friday, Dec. 2 at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut. Cmdr. Leslie relieved Cmdr. Nicholas Meyers as commanding officer of the crew of the future USS Idaho (SSN 799).

PEARL HARBOR (Sept. 20, 2022) Capt. Hank Kim, Pacific Partnership 2022 (PP22) mission commander, left, Capt. Jeffrey Feinberg, commanding officer of Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), middle, and Capt. David Burke, executive officer of Mercy, man the rails aboard Mercy while underway during PP22. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

220916-N-ND021-1005 NORFOLK, VA. (September 16, 2022) Vice Adm. Jim Kilby, deputy commande,r U.S. Fleet Forces Command, departs USS Monterey's (CG 61) decommissioning ceremony. Monterey was commissioned on June 16, 1990, and was a U.S. Navy warship for 32 years.

060126-N-7542D-941. Base: Tampa State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Jan. 21, 2021) Cmdr. Matthew. R. Shellock, left, reports his relief as commanding officer of the Harpers Ferry-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) to his relief, Cmdr. LaDonna M. Simpson, Jan. 21, 2021. Carter Hall is homeported at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Virginia.

221122-N-YN807-1010 NAVAL AIR STATION NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (Nov 22, 2022) Senior Chief Aviation Ordnanceman (AW/SW) Jorge E. Maldonado, assigned to The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT), salutes the sideboys during his retirement ceremony at Naval Air Station North Island, Nov 22, 2022. CNATT is tasked with developing and maintaining the Sailor/Marine Training Continuum for Navy and Marine Corps aviation technical training.

151130-N-UA460-095 YOKOSUKA, Japan (Nov. 30, 2015) Cmdr. Michele M. Day departs a change of command ceremony after turning over command of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) to Cmdr. Justin L. Harts. Day served as the ships commanding officer since March 14, 2014.

220916-N-ND021-1004 NORFOLK, VA. (September 16, 2022) USS Monterey's (CG 61) department heads wait to report the ship's final status to the commanding officer during the ship's decommissioning ceremony. Monterey was commissioned on June 16, 1990, and was a U.S. Navy warship for 32 years.

220916-N-ND021-1004 NORFOLK, VA. (September 16, 2022) USS Monterey's (CG 61) department heads wait to report the ship's final status to the commanding officer during the ship's decommissioning ceremony. Monterey was commissioned on June 16, 1990, and was a U.S. Navy warship for 32 years.

NAVAL BASE GUAM, Guam (Aug 12, 2022) -Rear Adm. Rick Seif, commander, Submarine Group 7 center, is piped ashore during a change of command ceremony for the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Asheville (SSN 758), at the base chapel, Aug 12. Asheville is one of five forward-deployed submarines assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 15.

Vice Adm. Kevin Lunday, the new commander of U.S.Coast Guard Atlantic Area, addresses the crowd at the Atlantic Area change of command ceremony on May 24, 2022, at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown, Virginia. The change of command is a time-honored tradition formally recognizing the transfer of command from one leader to another.

220818-N-FO714-1003YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 18, 2022) Capt. Chase Sargeant, outgoing commander, Task Force 71, salutes side-boys during Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 change of command ceremony aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) pierside at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Aug. 18. Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 is the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleets principal surface force.

NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 9, 2022) - Royal Canadian Navy Rear Adm. David Patchell, left, vice commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, welcomes Cmdr. Christopher Petro, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78), to Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 9. Porter returned to Naval Station Norfolk after completing seven years of service and 11 patrols at Naval Station Rota, Spain as a Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) destroyer.

NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 9, 2022) - Royal Canadian Navy Rear Adm. David Patchell, left, vice commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, welcomes Cmdr. Christopher Petro, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78), to Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 9. Porter returned to Naval Station Norfolk after completing seven years of service and 11 patrols at Naval Station Rota, Spain as a Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) destroyer.

Capt. Michael Kahle relieved Capt. Matthew Thompson as the commander of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, during a change of command ceremony at the Port of Tampa July 8, 2022. The event ensures the continuity of leadership and operations within the district's area of responsibility.

DN-ST-90-00107. Base: Sturgeon Bay State: Wisconsin (WI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220527-N-VQ947-1019 LOS ANGELES (May 27, 2022) Sailors meet with the cast and crew of the streaming series “The Terminal List” aboard the retired battleship USS Iowa (BB-61) at Los Angeles Fleet Week, May 27, 2022. LAFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America’s sea services. During Fleet Week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of Los Angles and its surrounding areas.

DN-ST-90-00237. Base: Naval Base, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

JINHAE, Republic of Korea - Cmdr. Preston Rackauskas, incoming commanding officer of Commander, Fleet Activities Chinhae (CFAC) delivers his speech for the Change of Command Ceremony at CFAC, Aug. 26, 2022. CFAC is located in the Jinhae District of Changwon City on the Southeastern coast of Republic of Korea is the only U.S. Navy installation on the Korean pennisula.

Adm. Linda Fagan relieves Adm. Karl Schultz as the 27th commandant of the Coast Guard during a change of command ceremony at Coast Guard headquarters June 1, 2022. Fagan is the first woman service chief of any U.S. military service.

220603-N-UJ449-1223 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (June 03, 2022) Naval Air Station Sigonella Command Master Chief Anna Wood, gives a speech during U.S. Navy Medicine and Readiness Training Command Sigonella Command Master Chief Albert Woods retirement ceremony on NAS Sigonella, June 03, 2022. NAS Sigonellas strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

220406-N-AV609-1263 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (April 6, 2022) Rear Adm. Dennis Velez delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) April 6, 2022. During the ceremony, Velez relieved Rear Adm. Rick Cheeseman, as Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10. CSG-10 is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter, and if necessary, defeat Americas adversaries in support of national security. It achieves its mission by projecting the combined power of George H.W. Bush, Carrier Air Wing 7, Destroyer Squadron 26, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55).

GEN Charles E. Wilhelm, USMC (left) is welcomed as the new Commander-in-CHIEF, United States Southern Command by RADM Walter F. Doran (right), United States Southern Command deputy commander in chief. Base: Howard Air Force Base Country: Panama (PAN)

120807-N-SI773-495PORT HUENEME, Calif. (Aug. 7, 2012) Capt. Dean Tufts, commodore of the 31st Seabee Readiness Group, delivers his speech during a change of command ceremony. The ceremony served as a dual change of command for both Naval Facilities Expeditionary Logistic Center and the 31st Seabee Readiness Group.

Cmdr. Patrick Alfonzo, left, commanding officer, Unmanned Undersea Vehicle Flotilla (UUV Flotilla) 1, salutes Capt. Jason Weed, commander, Unmanned Undersea Vehicle Squadron (UUVRON) 1, during a ceremony held to elevate UUVRON-1 to a submarine force major command and establish UUV Flotilla-1 as a subordinate command at Naval Base Kitsap-Keyport, Washington July 14, 2022. The ceremony was also a change of command for UUVRON-1, with Capt. Weed relieving Cmdr. Robert Patchin.

SINGAPORE (Oct. 28, 2022) -- U.S. Naval Academy Class of '96 graduate, Capt. Samuel F. de Castro wraps up command of Military Sealift Command Far East during a ceremony in Singapore, Oct. 28. MSCFE ensures approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific region, are manned, trained and equipped to deliver essential supplies, fuel, cargo, and equipment to warfighters, both at sea and on shore. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist First Class Brandon Parker.

Distinguished guests await the unveiling of a Virginia Historical Marker honoring Filipino Sailors in the U.S. Navy on May 28, 2022. The event occurred at the Philippine Cultural Center of Virginia in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Rear Adm. Matthew Sibley, commander, Coast Guard 14th District, speaks during a change of command ceremony at Coast Guard Base Honolulu, June 10, 2022. During the ceremony Rear Adm. Michael Day relieved Sibley as the districts commander.

220609-N-ML137-1077 KEKAHA, HI (June 9, 2022) Derek Kawakami, mayor of Kaua`i County, presents a gift to Capt. Timothy Young, outgoing commanding officer of Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands, during a change of command ceremony in the hangar bay. Capt. Brett Stevenson relieved Young as commanding officer during the official ceremony. PMRF is the worlds largest instrumented multi-environment range capable of supporting surface, subsurface, air and space operations simultaneously.

230404-N-ED185-1012KEYPORT, Wash (April 4, 2023) U.S. Navy Cmdr. Mike Thorpe, deputy commander of Submarine Squadron 17, passes through sideboys during a change of command ceremony for the blue crew of the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Maine (SSBN 741). U.S Navy Cmdr. Rowdy A. Garcia relieved U.S. Navy Cmdr. Darren Gerhardt as commanding officer of Maine.

220707-N-TO573-1032 ADRIATIC SEA (June 7, 2022) Capt. Gavin Duff, right, commanding officer, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), passes the national ensign to Lt. Cmdr. Christopher McHenry, from Rising Sun, Maryland, during the burial-at-sea for his late father, U.S. Army Maj. (Ret.) Robert McHenry Jr., aboard the ship, June 7, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - ASSUMPTION OF COMMAND CEREMONY AND RECEPTION

LAGO PATRIA, Italy - The change of command ceremony of Allied Joint Forces Command Naples (JFC Naples) from Adm. Robert P. Burke to Adm. Stuart B. Munsch took place at JFC Naples, Italy, June 27, 2022. The Change of Command Ceremony at JFC Naples symbolises the continuity and unity that is NATO and comes during a time of a changed security environment in Europe.

CORONADO, Calif. (April 28, 2022) Cmdr. Blythe Blakistone, commander of Naval Special Warfare Tactical Communications Command One (TCC-1), speaks during a change of command ceremony. Naval Special Warfare Group 1, which mans, trains and equips West Coast-based SEAL Teams, is comprised of SEAL Teams 1, 3, 5, and 7 as well as Logistics Support Unit 1 and TCC-1. TCC-1 supports SEAL Teams, other special operations forces, and conventional forces worldwide by providing tactical communications in all environments and levels of conflict.

220617-N-XY052-1205: SAN ANTONIO- (June 17, 2022) Lieutenant Commander John M. Griffith enjoying a moment during opening remarks by the Commanding Officer, Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) san Antonio, CDR Stephanie Simoni his retirement ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Airforce Base, Texas.

NORTH CHICAGO, Il. (July 15, 2022) Incoming Commanding Officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Great Lakes Captain Chad McKenzie reads his orders during the NMRTC Great Lakes change of command ceremony. NMRTC Great Lakes is the Navy command at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, the first-of-its-kind, and only, health care center that integrates Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs medical care into a single combined mission.

Vice Adm. Ross Myers, U.S. Fleet Cyber Command/U.S. Tenth Fleet commander, and Lt. Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Space Operations Command commander, sign the 10th Space Operations Squadron emblem at the activation ceremony for 10 SOPS at Point Mugu, California, June 6, 2022. 10 SOPS will fall under Space Operations Commands satellite communication delta, DEL8, and perform the mission formerly fulfilled by the Naval Satellite Operations Center, which was disestablished the same day.

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (Jan. 25, 2024) JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (Jan. 25, 2024) Cmdr. Christopher Clevenger, incoming commanding officer of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Topeka (SSN 754), arrives at the change of command ceremony for the Topeka on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Jan. 25, 2024. Topeka, commissioned Oct. 21, 1989, is the third ship of the United States Navy named for the city of Topeka, Kan., and is the fourth improved Los Angeles-class submarine.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Aug. 18, 2022) Commandant of Midshipmen Col. James P. McDonough receives the U.S. Flag during a burial service at the U.S. Naval Academy cemetery of Midshipman 2nd Class (junior) Luke Bird, of New Braunfels, Texas. Bird died July 17, 2022, when he fell over a waterfall while hiking in the Valparaíso region during a semester abroad in Chile.

220825-N-AS200-0211 PORT HUENEME, Calif. (Aug. 25, 2022) - Lt. Aristotle Rivera, Chaplain, Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), conducts the benediction during a retirement ceremony held at Seabee Museum onboard Port Hueneme, Aug. 25. NBVC is a strategically located Naval installation composed of three operating facilities: Point Mugu, Port Hueneme and San Nicolas Island. NBVC is the home of the Pacific Seabees, West Coast E-2C Hawkeyes, 3 warfare centers and 80 tenants.

Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath, incoming 5th District commander, addresses the audience at the 5th District's change-of-command ceremony in Portsmouth, Virginia, May 11, 2022. The change of command is a time-honored tradition that promotes continuity and authority of command within the Coast Guard. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Emily Velez.

NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUDA BAY, Greece (July 29, 2022) Capt. Odin J. Klug delivers remarks as he assumes command of U. S. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay from Capt. Rafael C. Facundo (right) during a Change of Command Ceremony presided over by Rear Adm. Brad J. Collins, Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central, July 29, 2022. NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., Allied, and Partner nation forces to be where they are needed when they are needed to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh, center, the commanding general of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, Marine Forces Command, Marine Forces Northern Command, and Rear Adm. Nancy S. Lacore, right, the 93rd commandant of Naval Distrct Washington, converse with Fox News media personnel during a ship tour of the USS Minneapolis-St. Paul (LCS 21) in Baltimore, Maryland, Sept. 9, 2022. Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore is an annual public event that celebrates the contributions of the U.S. sea services and maritime capabilities from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. More than 2,300 service members participated in Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover Baltimore 2022 engaging and assisting with ship tours, live bands and static equipment displays.

060128-N-2744N-005. Base: Pensacola State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

060829-N-5758H-025. Base: Ns Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220805-N-GR655-0040 GROTON, Conn. (August 5, 2022) - Vice Adm. Bill Merz, deputy chief of naval operations for plans and strategy, delivers remarks as the guest speaker during a change-of-command ceremony for the USS Colorado (SSN 788) in Groton, Connecticut, Aug. 5, 2022. The Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS Colorado and crew operate under Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) FOUR and its primary mission is to provide fast-attack submarines that are ready, willing, and able to meet the unique challenges of undersea combat and deployed operations in unforgiving environments across the globe.

220504-N-VW723-1251 NAVAL AIR STATION NORTH ISLAND (May 04, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Alexis Lipovsky meets Tom Cruise for the advance premiere of Top Gun: Maverick on Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI), California, May 4. Top Gun: Maverick, set to release worldwide on May 27, features U.S. Naval aviators and was shot on multiple ships and facilities including NASNI, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71).

Outgoing Commander Capt. Thomas Nelson gives remarks at his change of command June 1 at Ross Theater, Naval Station Great Lakes. Nelson, a trauma surgeon, relinquished command of NMRTC Great Lakes, the command located at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, to Nurse Corps Capt. Jeremy Hawker, to the right. Next to Capt. Hawker is NMRTC Great Lakes CMC Veronica Brittenum, and to her left is Chaplain Lt. Kevin Gilchrist.

GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Sept. 13, 2012) Chief Gunner's Mate Hector Rios and Chief Master-at-Arms Daniel Arroyo conduct a uniform inspection of students at Recruit Division Commander ÒCÓ School at Recruit Training Command, the Navy's only boot camp.

DN-SC-89-01711. Base: Naval Air Station, Moffett Field State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NASSAU, The Bahamas (June 28, 2023) Members from the media interview Captain Nakia Cooper, commanding officer of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), on the flight deck, June 28, 2023. Wasp is in Nassau, Bahamas for a scheduled port visit to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bahamian independence, and the opportunity to strengthen the 50-year bilateral partnership with the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, an important relationship with a key regional partner.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - TURRET HOMECOMING USS MONITOR

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) James Honea speaks with Navy recruiters of the year at the 123rd Army vs. Navy Game held at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia.

230404-N-IX644-1069 IONIAN SEA (April 4, 2023) Cmdr. Jamie Powers, commanding officer of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46, inspects Sailors during a dress uniform inspection aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), April 4, 2023. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and HSM-46. The George H.W. Bush CSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

220413-N-JL161-1053 WASHINGTON (April 13, 2022) Musician 1st Class Chris Dechiara gives a speech during his retirement ceremony. The retirement ceremony commemorates years of dedicated service.

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