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DESRON 15 Completes Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090206-06
Release Date: 2/6/2009 11:18:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Reckard, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Japan

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 held a change of command ceremony at Fleet Activities Yokosuka Feb. 5.

Capt. Mark C. Montgomery turned over the reigns to Capt. Charles F. Williams.

Montgomery recalled fond memories at the helm of the squadron and expressed his pleasure in handing over command to Williams.

"It's my honor today to turn over command of Destroyer Squadron 15 to my deputy commander, Charles Williams," Montgomery said. "It seems only too recently that I took this fantastic assignment in April 2007. I must say that this has been the most enjoyable, rewarding and probably challenging two years for my family and me. I appreciate so many of my friends and mentors coming to today's ceremony."

Since Montgomery took command of DESRON 15, the squadron's seven ships participated in more than 16 joint or combined operations in the western Pacific.

Rear Adm. Richard B. Wren, who relinquished command of Task Force 70 in December 2008, said Montgomery had a positive influence on his Sailors – from the seaman on the deckplates to destroyer commanding officers - making them better Sailors.

"It doesn't matter if you're a Sailor on the deckplates, if you're a junior officer learning under his tutelage, or if you're a commanding officer carrying out the implied or direct influence of Mark Montgomery, you are better for it," said Wren.

As the squadron's former deputy commander, Williams understands the dynamics of the DESRON 15 team and is confident he will be successful in his new role as commander of the squadron.

"Today is a wonderful and perfect day to take command of the most dynamic and combat ready destroyer squadron in our Navy," Williams said. "As the first deputy to plate up to commodore here at DESRON 15, I know my marching orders better than any. I know this business is a team sport. I also know at Battle Force 7th Fleet, we have an all-star team."

Seven Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers and more than 2,000 Sailors comprise DESRON 15, which serves in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf as part of Battle Force 7th Fleet.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c7f/.