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USS Oak Hill Celebrates Change of Command in Bahrain

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060404-03
Release Date: 4/4/2006 12:39:00 PM

By Ensign Dave Nobles, USS Oak Hill Public Affairs

USS OAK HILL, At Sea (NNS) -- Cmdr. Ray A. Stapf relieved Cmdr. Curtis J. Gilbert as commanding officer of USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) during a change of command ceremony on the ship's flight deck March 26 in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations.

Gilbert thanked the crew for their hard work and dedication to the mission.

“Oak Hill is a great ship," Said Gilbert. "It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your commanding officer.”

Prior to turning over command to Stapf, Gilbert explained that he had one final act as commanding officer. Gilbert called Postal Clerk 1st Class Michael Shepard to the front and promoted him to a 1st class for his hard work and enthusiasm in the supply department.

Stapf, who previously served on Oak Hill as chief engineer in 1998, reported to Oak Hill during her port visit in Bahrain.

Stapf thanked the crew for their warm and professional welcome during his return to Oak Hill.

“I am thrilled beyond words to have this opportunity to return to Oak Hill and work with every one of you professional warriors,” Stapf said to a receptive crew after assuming command.

Stapf enlisted in the Navy in 1982 as a Fireman Recruit. In 1988 he received a Bachelors of Science degree from New York State University and was selected for a naval commission as a surface warfare officer. He was commissioned upon graduation from Officer Candidate School in November 1988.

Stapf’s first tour on Oak Hill marked his transition from a combat logistics fleet (CLF) expert to an amphibious warrior. He reported to Oak Hill during a depot level availability and led his department to an engineering certification (ECERT) six months early.

Stapf has been awarded two Meritorious Service Medals, four Navy Commendation Medals, three Navy Achievement Medals and numerous campaign and service awards.

Oak Hill is currently on deployment, engaged in Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Indian Ocean. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.