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Clark Assumes Command Of Submarine Squadron 4

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080630-18
Release Date: 6/30/2008 9:10:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers, Naval Submarine Base New London Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 4 held a change of command ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London June 27.

Capt. Richard Breckenridge turned over command of SUBRON 4 to Capt. Robert Clark II in a symbolic ceremony at Pier 17 between USS Virginia (SSN 774), the first of the next-generation attack submarines, and USS Miami (SSN 755), the SUBRON 4 2007 Battle Efficiency award winner.

Keynote speaker, Rear Adm. Cecil Haney, Submarine Warfare Division director, spoke about Breckenridge's ultimate legacy.

"Instead of initiating a new development squadron, Submarine Force Command concentrated the Virginia-class under SUBRON 4's command," said Haney. "He took a new class from design and construction into operational employment, transforming the squadron into the Virginia-class 'Center of Excellence'."

Breckenridge thanked his staff, submarine commanding officers and family for their unwavering support. He also spoke of his feelings watching his son, Ryan, who continued the family legacy by recently graduating from the Naval Academy and joining the submarine force.

"This ceremony is more than passing the reins of command," said Breckenridge. "It is also a ceremony where I hand off the baton to the next generation."

"In all likelihood, I have spent my last day at sea, made my last trip to periscope depth, tracked my last bad guy and shot my last torpedo," added Breckenridge. "I turn over our Submarine Force future to Ryan and the junior officers here today and can rest assured it's in good hands."

Breckenridge's next assignment will be at Joint Chiefs of Staff, Force Structure Resources and Assessment, in Arlington, Va.

Clark became the 55th commodore of SUBRON 4.

"I feel truly honored and blessed to be entrusted with command of SUBRON 4," Clark said. "I look forward with great anticipation to the challenges that lie ahead."

Clark graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1984. He previously served as executive officer aboard USS Grayling (SSN 646) and USS Hampton (SSN 767) and as commanding officer aboard USS Connecticut (SSN 22).

For more news from Naval Submarine Base New London, visit at www.navy.mil/local/subasenlon/.