USS Nebraska (Blue) Welcomes New Commanding Officer
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS090116-25
Release Date: 1/16/2009 7:50:00 PM
By Mass Communication 2nd Class (SW/AW) Gretchen M. Albrecht, USS Nebraska Public Affairs
BANGOR, Wash. (NNS) -- USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) (Blue) hosted a change of command ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap Jan. 12.
With the traditional reading of orders and a goodbye to the Sailors he commanded, Cmdr. Matthew Colburn turned over his boat and crew to Cmdr. Gerhard Somlai.
Colburn took command February 2007 and guided the boat and crew through extended maintenance and modernization periods, and numerous inspections and strategic deterrence patrols.
"Having the opportunity to work with a bunch of great guys has been the best part of my job," said Colburn. "Being able to watch my men move up the ranks and better themselves both in the Navy and out has been most rewarding."
Capt. David Ratte, commodore, Submarine Squadron 17, praised the incoming commanding officer for his leadership and vast experience in the submarine community.
"One of Cmdr. Somlai's greatest traits is his leadership ability," said Ratte. "I am confident he will continue to lead this crew, and I am looking forward to seeing how far he will take them during his command."
Somlai is prepared for the challenges that come with being commanding officer of a ballistic-missile submarine.
"I want to take this already great crew to the next level," said Somlai. "We have a difficult schedule ahead of us, but with this talented crew we will become better and better each day."
For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 9, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg9/.
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