Powers Relieves Bruner as Commander, Submarine Squadron 7
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS060807-03
Release Date: 8/7/2006 11:02:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Cynthia Clark, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- Capt. Jeffrey Powers relieved Capt. Barry Bruner as Commander, Submarine Squadron 7 in a ceremony Aug. 7 on Pearl Harbor Naval Station.
Rear Adm. Michael Tracy, U.S. Pacific Command’s director of strategic plans and policy, was guest speaker for the ceremony, where he lauded Bruner for his beneficial service to the fleet.
“Never discount the absolute critical nature of your dangerous, but rewarding business,” said Tracy. “Your contributions, not only to regional security and prosperity, but to the American partnerships in Asia and in the Pacific, are more vital than ever, and their importance will only grow.”
Before commenting on Bruner’s outstanding job as commodore, he took a moment to focus on the man he has known since the early ‘90s when they served as commanding and executive officers aboard the attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750), homeported in Norfolk, Va.
“He is an instinctive mariner and he knows how to pass along those skills,” said Tracy. “He always led by example, fostering teamwork and excellence along the way. It is not surprising that he has enjoyed such an accomplished career in this work we do, nor that he has led this squadron to the continued success that it has enjoyed.”
Tracy then went on by sharing Squadron 7’s accomplishments while under Bruner’s leadership.
“He logged more time at sea or abroad than many of his predecessors, being where it counts most. The retention excellence in Submarine Squadron 7 units has been astounding and more importantly consistent. In our three dimensional operating environment that allows little or no room for error, preparing ships for sustained deployed operations at sea with sometimes short notice is a difficult challenge. Commodore, you have done a magnificent job in meeting it.”
Prior to wishing the new commodore well, Tracy concluded his observations about Bruner and his successful tour and the future of the Pacific Submarine Force.
“In all endeavors, he was well prepared,” Tracy concluded. “He always followed up, got beyond the issues, and worked things through to conclusion. Your efforts have tremendously shaped our current force and will help define the submarine force of tomorrow.”
Tracy noted Powers’ reputation throughout the Force, noting his “extremely impressive record of achievement across our entire operational spectrum and lots of Pacific experience.”
Rear Adm. Jeffrey Cassias, commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet, presented Bruner with his third Legion of Merit before sending him off to serve as chief of staff of Commander, Carrier Strike Group 5, on board USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), in Yokosuka, Japan.
“During his watch, Submarine Squadron 7 sent three submarines on highly successful Western Pacific deployments,” said Cassias. “Each ship operated superbly in the most challenging shallow water littoral operating areas in the world. He readied two submarines for complex shipyard availabilities where both were praised for their thorough preparations and flawless execution of these demanding maintenance periods.”
Cassias continued, Bruner spearheaded engagement efforts with the Korean Navy and strengthened bonds between submariners while the Korean Submarine Jung Woon was deployed to Pearl Harbor for Rim of the Pacific 2006. Under his command, Submarine Squadron Seven led the force in taking care of its people, as demonstrated by each of his submarines earned the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Retention Excellence Award.
In his departing remarks, Bruner first thanked Capt. Ken Sault, his second-in-command at the squadron. He then ensured his squadron they were in good hands with Powers.
“I have seen Jeff in action and I know he will be an absolutely superb commodore,” said Bruner. “I could turn over to no one better than Jeff, and I am envious of the successes I know he and the squadron will have in the future.”
Additionally, he thanked his Command Master Chief, CMDCM(SS) Chris M. Shannon, calling him the “finest CMC I have ever served with – period.” He then continued to thank the officers and Sailors who worked with him on a day-to-day basis.
“I have been wonderfully blessed and very fortunate to serve with the men sitting to your right," he said. "I will miss them greatly.”
After reporting the relief of command of Submarine Squadron 7, Powers took the opportunity to thank Bruner and his wife. He also ensured Cassias the squadron was in good hands, as well as give a pep talk to his new squadron as their new commodore.
“Adm. Cassias, thank you for your vote of confidence in giving me this assignment – a dream opportunity,” Powers said. “I will give my complete effort to fulfill your high expectations.”
“With great joy and anticipation I set my sights on the challenge of preparing our marvelous boats and their young, bright and eager crews for deployment,” he said to the crew. “They are Valens Volens – able and willing. We, too, must exemplify that motto.”
Powers’ previous assignment was as director of strategic forces for Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet. His career highlights include participation in the 1986 Operation Titanic with Dr. Robert Ballard and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Powers made one dive to the wreck of the RMS Titanic in the deep submersible Alvin. He also served as the submarine officer detailer in Washington, D.C., as commanding officer of USS Florida (SSN 728), homeported in Bangor, Wash. He is a 1982 graduate of the University of Rochester, Rochester, N.Y.
For related news, visit the Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/subpac/.
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