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Lewis Takes the Helm of USS Houston

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070713-07
Release Date: 7/13/2007 4:43:00 PM

By Oyaol Ngirairikl, U.S. Naval Forces Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Continued excellence was the theme of the day as Cmdr. John Zavadil was relieved by Cmdr. Michael Lewis as commanding officer of the USS Houston (SSN 713) on July 6.

Rear Adm. Douglas J. McAneny, commander of Submarine Group 7 in Yokosuka, Japan, was the guest speaker.

McAneny praised both Zavadil and Lewis for their excellent performances, noting his confidence in both men and encouraged them to continue to strive for excellence in their future roles.

“As Commander, Lewis, soon to be Captain, Lewis, accepts the responsibilities of command, he will assume the mantle of waterfront leadership for this great ship and fine crew,” Zavadil said. “He also inherits the legacy of the many submariners who have come before us establishing an unequaled record of service to our nation.”

In his most recent assignment, Lewis served as executive officer of commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic Fleet Tactical Readiness Team. Prior to arriving on Guam, he attended Joint and Combined Warfighter School at the Joint Forces Staff College.

Lewis promised to continue the record of success established by his predecessor and he noted the excellent condition of the ship and the “superb reputation” of the crew.

“I am truly taking a ship blessed with a great crew,” Lewis said.

During his speech, McAneny noted some of Zavadil’s accomplishments while at the helm of the Houston.

“Under John’s steady hands, the Houston completed four highly successful missions in the 7th fleet area of responsibilities,” McAneny said.

He also noted that Zavadil’s commitment to excellence, his enthusiasm and focus served as an inspiration to his peers and his crew, encouraging them to stay with the Navy and improving the Houston’s retention rate by 20 percent.

In 2006, the Houston earned the Commander Pacific Fleet Retention Excellence Award.

Zavadil assumed command of Houston in January 2005.

In his new assignment, Zavadil will serve as deputy commander for mission readiness at Submarine Squadron 15, which includes the Houston, USS Corpus Christi (SSN 705) and soon the USS Buffalo (SSN 715).

Zavadil, who apologized before hand for an emotional farewell, thanked his family and friends for their love, encouragement and support, and thanked the crew for their hard work.

“I appreciate the crew and the sacrifice and devotion of the crew in making the Houston a vital part of our nation’s defense,” Zavadil said.

Of Lewis’ appointment at the helm of the Houston, Zavadil said Lewis is the man for the job.

“He is a great guy, perfect fit to this crew,” Zavadil said, “and he’s going to take the ship farther than I ever could.”