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Change of Helm at the Center for SEAL and SWCC

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS071112-02
Release Date: 11/12/2007 9:44:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Michelle L. Kapica, Naval Special Warfare Command Public Affairs

CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- Commander, Center for SEAL and SWCC (Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewman) held a change of command ceremony at Naval Special Warfare Command, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado Nov. 7.

Capt. Thomas S. Carlson relieved Capt. Larry W. Lasky. Lasky was the first commanding officer at the Center, for SEAL and SWCC, which has been in operation for the past two years; providing rating development and education for the special operations ratings.

Under Lasky's leadership the Center, created the newly established SEAL and SWCC ratings. The new ratings were created to define the role, mission and area of responsibility of SEAL and SWCC operators.

In addition, the Center affected how the Navy selects chief petty officers in the SEAL and SWCC ratings. Lasky also approved a new distance learning program that helps SEAL and SWCC operators earn their advanced degrees.

During the ceremony, Lasky presented a handheld personal digital assistant, known as a Knowledge Based Academic Resource (KBAR) to an enlisted SEAL.

The KBAR stores information that can be used for college courses, professional development and studying for advancement. The Center plans to distribute close to 900 KBARs to help SEAL and SWCC operators study for their upcoming advancement exams.

Lasky is scheduled to retire after 25 years of service aboard the USS Midway Museum in San Diego, Feb. 1.

Carlson said it is a distinct honor to follow Lasky as commanding officer of the Center.

"I've always been very fortunate in my career to follow in the footsteps of some of our great leaders and I find myself there again," he said.

Carlson has served 23 years in the Navy, most recently as the commanding officer of Naval Special Warfare Group 3. He said he looks forward to continuing the development of the new SEAL and SWCC ratings.

"Together, we're going to continue the vital work that the Center for SEAL and SWCC is doing for the entire Naval Special Warfare community at large," he said. "This command will ensure that the most valuable asset; our people, have the tools and opportunity to fully achieve their career and personal potential and that directly translates into combat readiness."