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North Carolina Welcomes New Commander

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080913-01
Release Date: 9/13/2008 2:11:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Todd A. Schaffer, Commander, Submarine Force Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS North Carolina (SSN 777) officially changed hands during a ceremony Sept. 8 aboard the Virginia-class attack submarine at Naval Station Norfolk.

Cmdr. Wes Schlauder relieved Capt. Mark Davis as commanding officer.

Capt. Robert E. Clark, III, commander, Submarine Squadron 4 delivered the welcoming remarks, and the U.S. Rep. Mike McIntyre, N.C., served as the principal speaker.

"As the first commander, of the first submarine to bear the name North Carolina, Captain Davis has led with distinction, dignity and perseverance," said McIntyre."He inspired the best in the U.S. Navy"

Davis took command of the pre-commissioned submarine in November 2006, overseeing the transformation of a ship from a blueprint to a completed state-of-the-art warship.

"It was the hardest job I've ever had," said Davis. "It was also the most satisfying of my career. To take a crew of 60-70 and a submarine that was on blocks in buildings to a full command was remarkably rewarding."

Under the command of Davis, the ship completed many strenuous tests, beginning with the commissioning ceremony May 3, followed by hydro-dynamic sea trials with the dry-dock shelter, training operations with the SEALs, Virginia-class submarine against Virginia-class submarine exercises and countless events serving as host to distinguished visitors. After bringing the ship to life, one more challenge awaited – arranging the logistics for and conducting a rare change of command away from the ship's homeport in Groton, Conn.

"Choosing Norfolk was a personal desire," said Davis. "Several families are still in the area and it also allowed an easier access for North Carolina residents and guests."

Before relinquishing command, Davis spoke not of thanks, but more of inspiration in his final speech as the commanding officer. He gave recognition to his previous leaders who imparted guidance, to his crew members, to the families of the crew members who"sacrifice daily for the good of our country", and to the ship's sponsor. He even tagged the crew with a motivational slogan from his enlisted Seabee days.

"My crew personified the "Can Do" Seabee slogan," stated Davis. "No matter what the job pertained to they responded "Can Do." No statement is more suited for this crew.

"North Carolina is a ship destined for greatness, and I feel humbled and honored to have been a part of her creation," said Davis.

Schlauder says he looks forward to the challenges and upholding the traditions set by Davis to help the ship prepare and succeed in any operations tasked.

Davis' next assignment will be with Joint Task Force, Central Command.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Force, visit www.navy.mil/local/sublant/.