Naval Command Ceremonies

Images capturing naval officers participating in formal change-of-command ceremonies, emphasizing tradition and leadership transitions in maritime operations.

U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Matthew Chong speaks during a change of command ceremony on Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma, California on June 24, 2022. The commanding officer of Training Center Petaluma orchestrates the development and delivery of training to over one-third of the Coast Guards enlisted workforce.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 20, 2022) Capt. Brandon Burkett, left, from Waterloo, Iowa, relieves Capt. Jeremy Gray, from Cincinnati, from command of 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.

CMDR. Thomas I. Eubanks, prospective commanding officer of the guided missile frigate ROBERT G. BRADLEY (FFG-49) speaks during the ship's commissioning. Base: Bath State: Maine (ME) Country: United States Of America (USA)

GUAM (May 12, 2022) -- Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson, commander Joint Region Marianas, speaks during the Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron 3 change-of-command ceremony aboard USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo (T-AK 3008) while in port Guam, May 12. Capt. Steven Wasson, left, relieved Capt. John Bub, seated center, as commodore. Lt. Joseph Buck, chaplain, right, participated in the ceremony. Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron 3 strategically places material and equipment throughout the Indo-Pacific Region for all U.S. Armed Services. This capability ensures critical supplies are delivered where and when needed and enables U.S. forces to rapidly respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

220519-N-UD000-1102 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.

Chief of Naval Operations Michael Gilday, salutes Rear Admiral John Korka during the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) change of command ceremony where Rear Admiral Dean Vanderley relieved Korka as commander of NAVFAC and Chief of Civil Engineers. Vanderley is the U.S. Navys 46th NAVFAC commander and Chief of Civil Engineer.

U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Matthew Chong speaks during a change of command ceremony on Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma, California on June 24, 2022. The commanding officer of Training Center Petaluma orchestrates the development and delivery of training to over one-third of the Coast Guards enlisted workforce.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 21, 2022) - Capt. Jeffrey Feinberg, commanding officer of USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), right, receives his Commanding Officer pin from Rear Adm. Bruce Gillingham, 39th Surgeon General of U.S. Navy, during a retirement and change of command ceremony aboard Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) during Pacific Partnership 2022. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 20, 2022Rear Adm. J.T. Anderson, left, from Fayetteville, N.C., commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3, authorizes Capt. Brandon Burkett, from Waterloo, Iowa, assume command of 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.

PANAMA CITY, FL (June 10, 2022) 220610-N-OT328-0193 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.

110930-N-KK576-074BALTIMORE (Sept. 30, 2011) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, left, congratulates Vice Adm. Barry McCullough during a change of command ceremony at Fort McHenry National Monument. Vice Adm. Michael S. Rogers relieved McCullough as commander of U.S. Fleet Cyber Command and U.S. 10th Fleet. Fleet Cyber Command is the Navy's central operating authority for networks, cryptologic and signals intelligence, information operations, cyber, electronic warfare, and space capabilities.

050722-N-0962S-019. Base: US Naval Academy, Annapolis State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: CNO

220617-N-FP878-0076COLUMBUS, Ohio (Jun. 17, 2022) - Cmdr. Warren Overton, commander Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Ohio River Valley reads his orders during the change of command ceremony Friday giving up his command. NTAG Ohio River Valleys mission is to man the Navy fleet with the highest quality Sailors and maintain the Navys unchallenged worldwide maritime superiority and ability to win wars, deter aggression and maintain freedom of the seas.

HAKODATE, Japan (Oct. 7, 2022) Cmdr. Marcus Seeger, commanding officer of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65), speaks to a crowd during a welcoming ceremony hosted by the Hakodate America-Japan Society after arriving for a scheduled port visit, Oct. 7. Benfold is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleets principal surface force.

221202-N-OM737-1198NORFOLK, Va. (Dec. 2, 2022) Rear Adm. Tom Williams, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) Two, arrives as a member of the official party during the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) change of command ceremony in the ships hangar bay, Dec. 2, 2022. During this ceremony Capt. Paul Burkhart relieved Capt. Joseph Murphy, taking command as the Bataans 19th commanding officer.

221014-N-PX557-0243MECHANICSBURG, Pa.(October 14, 2022)Capt. David D. Carnal relieves Capt. Gene Cash (right), as commanding officer, Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC), during a ceremony onboard Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg, October 14. Rear Adm. Peter Stamatopoulos (center), commander, NAVSUP/Chief of Supply Corps, presided over the ceremony and provided guest speaker remarks. Cash served as commanding officer, NAVSUP BSC, from April 2020 to October 2022 and will retire following more than 28 years of service as a Navy Supply Corps Officer.U.S. Navy photo by James E. Foehl (Released)

220609-N-VP266-1085 WASHINGTON (June 9, 2022) -- Vice Adm. Aluf David Sa'ar Salama, the commander in chief of the Israeli Navy, right, delivers remarks during a Navy Full Honors Arrival ceremony at Washington Navy Yards Leutze Park, June 9, 2022. Adm. Michael Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations hosted the event.

DN-ST-85-06240. Base: Seattle State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Capt. Brian Hogan, commodore, Submarine Squadron Eight, center, watches as Cmdr. Christopher Holland, right, relieves Cmdr. Jonathan Cantor, left, as commanding officer of the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Boise (SSN 764) during a change of command ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 21, 2022.

220622-N-MJ302-1077 SAN DIEGO (June 21, 2022) Rear Adm. James A. Kirk, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 15 is presented the Legion of Merit award by Vice Adm. Michael Boyle, commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, during the CSG 15 change of command ceremony in the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Kirk turned over command to Rear Adm. Joseph Cahill.

221014-N-LI114-2015 MANILA BAY (Oct. 14, 2022) The Honorable MaryKay Carlson, right, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines, bids farewell to Rear Adm. Buzz Donnelly, center, Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, and Capt. Daryle Cardone, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), while departing the ship in Manila Bay, Philippines, Oct. 14. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of CSG 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.

220601-N-KN989-1010 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (June 1, 2022) Rear Adm. Joseph Doug” Noble, Defense Logistics Agency’s (DLA) Director of Logistics Operations, presents the Defense Superior Service Medal to Capt. Jason Adams, Commander, DLA Indo-Pacific. Adams was relieved by Capt. Patrick Blake during the official change of command ceremony June 1, 2022. DLA Indo-Pacific, has more than 1329 uniformed and civilian personnel who provide a unified DLA interface for warfighters throughout the USINDOPACOM area of responsibility, integrating DLA support within the region and reaching back to other DLA activities in the continental United States for logistics solutions.

220603-N-TH560-0953 WASHINGTON (June 3, 2022) - Vice Adm. John B. Nowell Jr. salutes his son, Lt. John B. Nowell III, during his retirement ceremony at Washington Navy Yards Admiral Leutze Park. Nowell's 38 years of service began at the U.S. Naval Academy; a career surface warfare officer, he served aboard five ships and commanded the guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) and Expeditionary Strike Group 7. Nowell was the Navys 59th Chief of Naval Personnel.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 20, 2022) Capt. Brandon Burkett, from Waterloo, Iowa, gives his first address as commanding officer of 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 7, 2022) Capt. Patrick Baker, middle, executive officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), speaks during a Battle of Midway remembrance ceremony. 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.

U.S. Navy Lt. Marquis R. Jones, chaplain with the Pearl Harbor Memorial Chapel, assigned to Navy Region Hawaii, gives the invocation during the National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony hosted by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) at National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Sept. 16, 2022. The event is held every year on the third Friday of September, honoring prisoners of war and missing-in-action service members. DPAAs mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for U.S. personnel to their families and our nation.

Cmdr. Jeremiah Daley, commanding officer of Unmanned Surface Vessel Division One (USVDIV-1), speaks with the USVDIV-1 crew upon their return to homeport at Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, California, and the conclusion of Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2, Jan. 15, 2024. IBP 23.2 is a Pacific Fleet exercise to test, develop and evaluate the integration of unmanned platforms into fleet operations to create warfighting advantages.

060704-N-9562H-022. Base: Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Rear Admiral James Austin, Commander Fleet Air, Western Pacific, (left) Vice Admiral (VADM) James Hogg, Commander of the Seventh Fleet, (right) and Lieutenant Commander Anderson, officer in charge of Naval Air Facility Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance, tour the facility during VADM Hogg`s visit. Base: Naval Air Facility, Atsugi Country: Japan (JPN)

NEWPORT, R.I. (Aug. 26, 2022) Capt. Everett Alcorn, commanding officer, Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN), Rhode Island, gives a speech during the Officer Development School (ODS) class 22070 graduation ceremony, Aug. 26. ODS provides staff corps officers and several restricted line designators with training necessary to prepare them to function in their role as newly commissioned Naval officers.

221012-N-KB401-1551 WASHINGTON (Oct. 12, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday speaks with Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces, at a cake cutting ceremony for the Navy's 247th birthday celebration at the Pentagon, Oct. 12. The theme for this years birthday celebration is "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years."

161015-N-AT895-066 BALTIMORE (Oct. 16, 2016) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson delivers remarks during the commissioning ceremony for the Navy's newest and most technologically advanced warship, USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000).

220630-N-OX321-2256 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (June 30, 2022) - Capt. Timothy Thompson, commodore of Commander, Task Force 67, directly speaks and thanks his wife, Amy, during the CTF 67 change of command ceremony held in the new P-8 hangar on Naval Air Station Sigonella, June 30, 2020. During the ceremony Capt. Timothy Thompson was relieved by Capt. Bryan Hagar as the Commodore for CTF 67. CTF 67 is responsible for command and tactical control of deployed maritime patrol and reconnaissance squadrons throughout the European and African areas of responsibility.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 6, 2022) - U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Brendan McPherson, commander, Seventh Coast Guard District, arrives to USS Lassen (DDG 82) for an Admirals Reception during the Fleet Week Port Everglades festivities, May 6, 2022. Fleet Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase the awareness of the Navys role and purpose in our national defense.

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.

220503-N-SS900-1075 SAN DIEGO (May 3, 2022) Vice Adm. Stephen T. Koehler, commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, and Rear Adm. Daniel Martin, commander, Carrier Strike Group One, stand at attention prior to an award presentation during a Carrier Strike Group One change of command ceremony aboard Naval Air Station North Island, May 3. During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Daniel Martin was relieved by Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello as commander, Carrier Strike Group One.

Admiral Frank B. Kelso II speaks during the change of command ceremony at which he is relinquishing his position as Commander in CHIEF, United States Atlantic Command to Admiral Leon A. Edney. The ceremony is taking place aboard the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67). Kelso will be replacing Admiral Carlisle A.H. Trost as CHIEF of Naval Operations. Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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 in Lago Patria, 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.

001018-N-1144C-004. Base: Naval Air Station, San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Admiral Leon A. Edney, Vice CHIEF of Naval Operations, speaks during Fleet Week at the dedication of the first completed pier at the station. Base: Naval Station, New York State: New York (NY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Commissioning of USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) took place on April 1, 2023 at Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme.

220819-N-ED185-2061SILVERDALE, Wash. (Aug. 19, 2022) Cmdr. Brian T. Murphy and Cmdr. Michael A. Lyle salute during a change of command ceremony for the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Alabama (SSBN 731) at the U.S. Naval Undersea Museum in Keyport, Wash., Aug. 19, 2022. Lyle relieved Murphy as the 18th commanding officer of Alabama (Blue).

NEWPORT, R.I. (Dec. 8, 2022) Capt. Brian Mutty, commanding officer, Surface Warfare Schools Command (SWSC), passes through sideboys during the Department Head Class 269 graduation ceremony at SWSC on Naval Station Newport, Dec. 8, 2022. The SWSC Department Head Course is the cornerstone of a surface warfare officer's (SWO) tactical education in their naval career. Upon the conclusion of the graduation ceremony, Department Head Class 269 will take the knowledge back to the fleet, where they will teach the next generation of SWOs. These career naval professionals are part of a long tradition of 60 years of excellence at SWSC, previously known as Surface Warfare Officers School Command.

Rear Admiral Bruce L. Gillingham, Navy Surgeon General and Chief Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, inspects command members during a command uniform inspection.

220923-N-DQ752-0015 JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO FT. SAM HOUSTON, Texas (Sept. 23, 2022) Rear Adm. Cynthia Kuehner, commander of Naval Medical Forces Support Command (left), Capt. Ann Annie Case, former commanding officer of Navy Medicine Training Support Center (NMTSC) (center), and Capt. Paul Allen, commanding officer of NMTSC, (right) salute during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston. NMTSC is the Navy component command that provides administrative and operational control over Navy staff and students assigned to the Medical Education and Training Campus and other medical programs in the San Antonio area.

Capt. Jeremy Hawker, incoming commander, gives remarks at his change of command June 1, where he took charge of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Great Lakes, the command located at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, Ill. Hawker, Navy Nurse Corps, took command from Capt. Thomas Nelson, a trauma surgeon. To his left is Rear Admiral Jennifer Couture, Commander, Naval Service Training Command, who was the guest speaker. To her right is Rear Admiral Darin Via, Commander, Navy Medical Forces Atlantic, who presided.

060525-N-1371G-054. Base: New York State: New York (NY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

230331-N-XP477-1049 SAN DIEGO (March 31, 2023) - Rear Adm. Robert Chadwick II, presiding officer, right, Master Chief Sonar Technician Luke Stiles, guest speaker, center, and Master Chief Operations Specialist Kermit L. Pollard salute during Pollard's retirement ceremony at the Murphy Canyon Chapel, March 31, 2023. Pollard is retiring after 27 years of dedicated service to the U.S. Navy.

WASHINGTON (Sept. 28, 2012) Retired Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick D. West, right, passes the cutlass to MCPON Michael D. Stevens during the MCPON Change of Office ceremony at the Sail Loft at the Washington Navy Yard. Stevens replaced West as the 13th MCPON, and was selected while serving as the U.S. Fleet Forces Fleet Master Chief.

220729-N-UJ449-1034 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (July 29, 2022) Capt. Marshall Monteville, commanding officer U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit 3 receives Legion of Merit award from Capt. William Deniston, commander, Naval Medical Forces Pacific during his change of command ceremony on Naval Air Station Sigonella, July 29, 2022. NAS Sigonella’s 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.

220908-N-UB993-1128 ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Sept. 8, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday hands the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) cutlass to MCPON James Honea during the Change of Office ceremony held at Mahan Hall, United States Naval Academy, Sept. 8, 2022. Honea relieved MCPON Russell Smith to become the 16th MCPON.

230406-N-GR655-0130 GROTON, Connecticut (April 6, 2023) - Capt. Jason Grizzle, incoming commodore of Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) FOUR, delivers remarks on board the USS North Dakota (SSN 784) during a change-of-command ceremony in Groton, Connecticut, Aug. 12, 2022. Grizzle relieved Capt. John Strafford during the ceremony. Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) FOURs 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.

240216-N-SS900-1073 SAN DIEGO (Feb. 16, 2024) Cmdr. Eric Knepper speaks during a change of command ceremony for the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) onboard Naval Base Point Loma, Feb. 16. During the ceremony, Cmdr. Eric Knepper relieved Capt. Matt Pianetta as commanding officer of Santa Fe. Navy

220610-N-N3764-0501PONCE, Puerto Rico - (June 10, 2022) -- Capt. Todd Peters, left, Commodore, Mine Division 22 presents Cmdr. Daniel Reiher with the Meritorious Service Medal at a change of command ceremony as Reiher is changes hands with Cmdr. Eric Meyers as commanding officer of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Wichita (LCS 13) in Ponce, Puerto Rico, June 10, 2022. Wichita is in the U.S. 4th Fleet operating area (OPAREA) in support of the Joint Interagency Task Force-Souths counter-narcotics mission.

APRA HARBOR, Guam (May 23, 2022) - Cmdr. Michael Woodcock, executive officer of the Emory S. Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40), gives opening remarks during a change of command ceremony held aboard the ship, May 23. Frank Cable is one of two U.S. Navy submarine tenders that provide maintenance, hotel services, and logistical support to submarines and surface ships in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation.

221012-N-KB401-1404 WASHINGTON (Oct. 12, 2022) Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro shakes hands with Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday at a cake cutting ceremony for the Navy's 247th birthday celebration at the Pentagon, Oct. 12. The theme for this years birthday celebration is "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years."

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

220503-N-SS900-1037 SAN DIEGO (May 3, 2022) Rear Adm. Daniel Martin, commander, Carrier Strike Group One, is rung aboard for a Carrier Strike Group One change of command ceremony aboard Naval Air Station North Island, May 3. During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Daniel Martin was relieved by Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello as commander, Carrier Strike Group One.

060922-N-1688B-046. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

001014-N-0981R-006. Base: Naval Station, Mayport State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

GEN. Colin Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of STAFF, speaks during the ceremony commemorating the 3,000th strategic deterrent patrol completed by the Navy's submarine force. The patrol was completed by the TENNESSEE. Base: Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay State: Georgia (GA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

SAN DIEGO (Nov. 09, 2022) - Cmdr. Nathaniel J. Chase, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88), gives remarks during a ceremony celebrating the ships 20th anniversary.

230330-N-KU796-1034 BUSAN, Republic of Korea (March 30, 2023) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, commander, Carrier Strike Group 11, renders honors during a wreath laying ceremony at the United Nations Memorial in Busan, Republic of Korea. The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) is in the U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

060822-N-9273C-026. Country: Bahrain (BHR)

220603-N-TH560-1280 WASHINGTON (June 3, 2022) - Vice Adm. John B. Nowell Jr. receives his vice admiral flag from Master Chief Cryptologic Technician (Interpretive) Kristina Koch during his retirement ceremony at Washington Navy Yards Admiral Leutze Park. Nowell's 38 years of service began at the U.S. Naval Academy; a career surface warfare officer, he served aboard five ships and commanded the guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) and Expeditionary Strike Group 7. Nowell was the Navys 59th Chief of Naval Personnel.

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (Sept. 09, 2022) Capt. Brian Binder, commanding officer of Naval Station Mayport, addresses guests during a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony held at the installation on Sept. 09, 2022. Naval Station Mayport is one of three major Navy installations in the Jacksonville, Fla. area and home to the Navy's 4th Fleet.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (May 1, 2022) - U.S. Navy Capt. Gregory Smith, U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Brendan McPherson, and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. John Menoni salute at an All Hands On Deck Welcoming Party and Concert during the Fleet Week Port Everglades festivities, May. 1, 2022. Fleet Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase the awareness of the Navys role and purpose in our national defense.

220419-N-KB401-1544 PEARL HARBOR April 19, 2022 Cmdr. Douglas Pratt, from Nashua, New Hampshire, gives remarks during a change of command ceremony for the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) outside the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, April 19. Cmdr. Adam Matthews, from Livingston, Wisconsin, relieved Pratt as Tucsons commanding officer at the ceremony.

GUAM (May 12, 2022) -- After being at the helm of Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron 3 for two years, Capt. John Bub, wrapped up his command tour during a change-of-command ceremony aboard USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo (T-AK 3008) while in port Guam, May 12. Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron 3 strategically places material and equipment throughout the Indo-Pacific Region for all U.S. Armed Services. This capability ensures critical supplies are delivered where and when needed and enables U.S. forces to rapidly respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

120718-N-AC887-012 PACIFIC OCEAN (JULY 18, 2012) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus, left, and Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert speak with Sailors during an all hands call aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Mabus, Greenert and other senior Navy leaders were on hand to witness the large-scale demonstration of the Navy's use of alternative energy and energy efficiencies during RIMPAC, the world's largest international maritime exercise.

161015-N-AT895-221 BALTIMORE (Oct. 16, 2016) Capt. James Kirk, commanding officer of the Navy's newest and most technologically advanced warship, USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000), delivers remarks during a commissioning ceremony at North Locust Point in Baltimore.

SASEBO, Japan (May 12, 2022) Capt. James T. Robinson, commanding officer of the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), reads his orders during his change-of-command ceremony in the ships vehicle stowage area. Green Bay, part of Amphibious Squadron 11, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221007-N-DW158-1115 SEA OF JAPAN (Oct. 7, 2022) Command Master Chief Jeremy Douglas, right, Ronald Reagans command master chief, presents Capt. Fred Goldhammer, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), with his commissioning pennant during a change of command ceremony in the Sea of Japan, Oct 7. During the ceremony, Goldhammer was relieved by Capt. Daryle Cardone as the ships 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.

NORFOLK, Va. (April 8, 2022) - Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer, left, commander, Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFCNF), greets the German Army Gen. Eberhard Zorn, Chief of Defence, at JFCNF Headquarters, April 8. JFC Norfolks mission is to secure the strategic lines of communication between North America and Europe.

221028-N-PS730-1080 NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (October 28, 2022) Capt. (ret.) Steven Reynolds pins the command-at-sea pin on his son, Cmdr. Erik Reynolds, aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) during a change of command ceremony, October 28. Reynolds relieved Cmdr. Timothy Battles of command.

220603-N-TH560-0428 WASHINGTON (June 3, 2022) - Vice Adm. John B. Nowell Jr. watches the old glory detail during his retirement ceremony at Washington Navy Yards Admiral Leutze Park. Nowell's 38 years of service began at the U.S. Naval Academy; a career surface warfare officer, he served aboard five ships and commanded the guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) and Expeditionary Strike Group 7. Nowell was the Navys 59th Chief of Naval Personnel.

Vice Admiral Bernard M. Kauderer, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, speaks during the commissioning of the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS PITTSBURGH (SSN 720). Seated on the left is Pennsylvania Governor Dick Thornburgh and on the right is Sponsor Carl H. Sawyer. Base: Naval Submarine Base, New London State: Connecticut (CT) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Navy Capt. Michael Hall, the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego chaplain, addresses Marines and Sailors with MCRD San Diego during a cake-cutting ceremony honoring the Navys 247th birthday at MCRD San Diego, Oct. 13, 2022. The central theme of this year's celebration was "On Watch - 24/7 for 247 Years, which highlights our Navys enduring ability to remain fully ready to respond to and effectively deter emanating threats. The celebration of the Navy's birthday recognizes the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve with the Navy.

DN-ST-85-06239. Base: Seattle State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Lt. Col. Bradley J. Butler Retirement Ceremony

Retail Service Specialist Seaman Kasey Wetters, from Birmingham, Michigan, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) supply department, speaks with Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, following a wreath laying ceremony in honor of former President Gerald R. Ford and First Lady Betty Ford at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, September 1, 2022. Twelve Ford Sailors traveled to Michigan for the ships annual namesake visit to learn about the legacy of President Gerald R. Ford and connect with local community members in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Albion, Michigan.

Capt. Brian Anderson, chief of operations for the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area, stands with Cmdr. Jeremy Greenwood relieved Cmdr. Malcolm Belt for a photo aboard USCGC Legare (WMEC 912) in Portsmouth, Virginia, on June 14, 2022. Greenwood relieved Belt as the commanding officer of USCGC Legare during a formal change of command ceremony at the unit.

KINGS BAY, Ga. (May 20, 2022) Capt. John Roussakies, incoming commanding officer of the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) (Gold), speaks to distinguished guests, family and crew during a change of command ceremony held at the World War II memorial pavilion onboard Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. Roussakies relieves Capt. Theron Davis. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ashley Berumen (Released)

Adm. James D. Watkins, chief of naval operations, speaks during the commissioning ceremony for the Naval Strike Warfare Center. Base: Naval Air Station, Fallon State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

060731-N-3165S-044. Base: Yorktown State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220609-N-ML137-1190 KEKAHA, HI (June 9, 2022) Capt. Brett Stevenson, incoming commanding officer of Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands, speaks during a change of command ceremony in the hangar bay. Stevenson relieved Capt. Timothy 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.

Admiral (ADM) Leon A. Edney speaks during the change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67) at which he is assuming the position of Commander in CHIEF, United States Atlantic Command, from ADM Frank B. Kelso II. Kelso will be replacing Admiral Carlisle A.H. Trost as CHIEF of Naval Operations. Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (July 8, 2022) - Capt. Steven Stasick, commanding officer, Officer in Charge of Construction Marine Corps Marianas, delivers remarks during the change of command ceremony at Andersen Air Force Base July 8. Capt. Robert Stiles relieved Stasick as the commanding officer.

SILVERDALE, Wash. (April 6, 2022) - U.S. Navy Cmdr. Randy Fike, from Grand Prairie, Texas, middle-right, assumes the duties as the commanding officer for the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Kentucky (SSBN 737) from Cmdr. Joseph Campbell, from Atlanta, center left, during a change of command ceremony, April 6, 2022. Kentucky commissioned on July 13, 1991. The ship is the 12th submarine in the class, and the third U.S. Navy ship to bear the name.

First Navy Expeditionary Logistics Regiment (NELR) held a change of command ceremony at Naval Weapons Station-Cheatham Annex in Williamsburg, Virginia on April 1. Captain Christopher S. Koprivec, relieved Captain Kurt D. Williams, and served as Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support group (NAVELSG) Deputy Commander and Commodore, 1st NELR.

APRA HARBOR, Guam (May 23, 2022) - Capt. Albert Alarcon, outgoing commanding officer of the Emory S. Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40), bids farewell to the crew during a change of command ceremony held aboard the ship, May 23. Frank Cable is one of two U.S. Navy submarine tenders that provide maintenance, hotel services, and logistical support to submarines and surface ships in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation.

060828-N-1805P-002. Base: Cleveland State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA)

RADM Alan Reyes, Deputy Commander, Naval Supply Systems Command proceeds outside to await the start of outdoor activities during an unveiling and dedication of a Virginia Historical Marker honoring Filipino Sailors in the U.S. Navy on May 28, 2022. He is flanked by Virginia Beach City Council Member Michael Berlucchi, who represents the Rose Hall District in Virginia Beach. The event occurred at the Philippine Cultural Center of Virginia in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

161015-N-AT895-085 BALTIMORE (Oct. 16, 2016) Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson delivers remarks during the commissioning ceremony for the Navy's newest and most technologically advanced warship, USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000).

220926-N-LI114-1014 BUSAN, Republic of Korea (Sept. 26, 2022) Rear Adm. Buzz Donnelly, left, Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, and Capt. Fred Goldhammer, commanding officer of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), salute Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy Rear Adm. Kyung Cheol Kim, Director, Maritime Operations Center, Republic of Korea Fleet Command (ROKFLT), during a departure ceremony in Busan, ROK, Sept. 26. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of CSG 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.

060427-N-1928H-211. Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220908-N-UB993-1153 ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Sept. 8, 2022) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday shares a message of thanks to Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Russell Smith after presenting him the Distinguished Service Medal during the Change of Office and Retirement ceremony held at Mahan Hall, United States Naval Academy, Sept. 8, 2022. Smith served as the 15th MCPON for four years, and turned over responsibility to James Honea as the 16th MCPON.

220617-N-OT701-1058 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (Jun. 17, 2022) Rear Adm. Stephen Barnett stands at attention while Rear Adm. Timothy Kott, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, reads his orders during a change of command ceremony. Barnett relieved Kott as commander of Navy Region Hawaii on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

NEWPORT, R.I. (Dec. 8, 2022) Capt. Brian Mutty, commanding officer, Surface Warfare Schools Command (SWSC), passes through sideboys exiting the Department Head Class 269 graduation ceremony at SWSC on Naval Station Newport, Dec. 8, 2022. The SWSC Department Head Course is the cornerstone of a surface warfare officer's (SWO) tactical education in their naval career. Upon the conclusion of the graduation ceremony, Department Head Class 269 will take the knowledge back to the fleet, where they will teach the next generation of SWOs. These career naval professionals are part of a long tradition of 60 years of excellence at SWSC, previously known as Surface Warfare Officers School Command.

220728-N-ZS023-1036 SAN DIEGO (July 28, 2022) Cmdr. Michael Piano, commanding officer of Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10) Blue Crew, delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony on the ships flight deck. LCS are fast, agile, mission-focused platforms designed to operate in near-shore environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. LCS are capable of supporting forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (May 27, 2022) President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and U.S. Naval Academys 63rd Superintendent Vice Adm. Sean Buck render honors to the United States flag. The U.S. Naval Academys Class of 2022 graduated 1,100 midshipmen in a ceremony at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium where the president delivered remarks as the guest speaker.

of 3