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USS Howard Holds Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060902-01
9/2/2006

By Ens. Kevin Heilenday, USS Howard Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Cmdr. James M. Morgan relieved Cmdr. Carol A. Hottenrott as commanding officer (CO) of USS Howard (DDG 83) during a change of command ceremony held aboard the guided-missile destroyer July 28 while pierside at Naval Station San Diego.

Commander, Naval Region Southwest Rear Adm. Leendert Hering and guest speaker, Commander, Destroyer Squadron 21 Capt. Victorino Mercado attended, as Navy leaders and family members and friends of both Morgan and Hottenrott, and of the ship’s namesake, the late Marine 1st Sgt. Jimmy Howard.

In his remarks to the assembled guests and crew, Mercado spoke of Hottenrott’s numerous accomplishments during a highly successful 20-month tour.

“Howard, under Carol’s leadership, is completing an absolutely outstanding chapter of success, combat readiness and excellence,” Mercado said. “I will say, Carol, that you should leave knowing that you made Howard a better place, a more combat-ready warship, and laid the foundation for Howard’s future success.”

In welcoming Morgan to the “Rampant Lions” of Destroyer Squadron 21, Mercado paid tribute to Howard family and friends.

“All of us who wear the cloth of our nation couldn’t do what we do without your sacrifice and support,” he said. “Crews like this fine crew of Howard have been taking care of COs for over 230 years. All they need is what you’ve been practicing your entire career – leadership.”

The ceremony marked the culmination of Hottenrott’s second at-sea command, one in which she led the Howard crew through an extensive overhaul period followed by a highly successful training workup.

“Thank you, USS Howard,” Hottenrott stated in her departing comments. “Good ships, good crews, and mission readiness are built Sailor by Sailor…all of you answered that call.”

Hottenrott will next report to Surface Warfare Officers School in Newport, R.I., to serve as a senior-level instructor and head of the Maritime Warfare Department.

Speaking of his predecessor, Morgan noted, “I have a tough act to follow.” In his remarks to the assembled crew and guests, he thanked his family and his mentors and paid special tribute to the Howard relatives.

“I feel truly honored to be here today and to take command of a warship named for such a great American,” Morgan said.

Howard is Morgan’s first at-sea command. His previous sea tour was as executive officer in USS Carney (DDG 64).

The ship is currently making preparations for its upcoming deployment in support of the global war on terrorism as part of Expeditionary Strike Group 5.