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DESRON 50 Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090623-03
Release Date: 6/23/2009 1:54:00 PM

From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Capt. Bradley Mai assumed command of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 50 during a ceremony held aboard USS Chinook (PC 9) in Manama June 23.

Mai relieved Capt. Karl Van Deusen, who has commanded the squadron since June 2008.

"It's been a fantastic tour," said Van Deusen. "I can't say enough about the quality of my immediate DESRON 50 staff, Patrol Forces Southwest Asia, and the 11 commanding officers and crews aboard our U.S. Navy and Coast Guard patrol boats. Additionally, along with all the professionals on the U.S. Navy staff, I've thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to work with sailors from the Australian, British, Singaporean and Iraqi navies up in Iraqi waters. Working with dedicated Sailors is always the highlight of a command tour."

Along with assuming command of DESRON 50, Mai also serves as Commander Task Force (CTF) 55. For the past several years, CTF 55 has served primarily as part of Task Group Iraqi Maritime and CTF 158, providing maritime infrastructure protection in Iraq.

"DESRON 50 has performed superbly under Commodore Van Deusen's leadership," said Mai. "Of particular note is the strong working relationship they have developed with the Iraqi navy in protecting the oil platforms. Their work there has been extraordinary. It is an honor to take command of such a dedicated and successful squadron."

CTF Iraqi Maritime's primary mission is conducting maritime security operations (MSO) around Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal and Al Basrah Oil Terminal in support of the U.S. and Iraqi security agreement. This resolution charges the multinational force with the responsibility and authority to maintain security and stability in Iraqi territorial waters and also supports the Iraqi government's request for security support. Iraq's oil platforms account for approximately 80 percent of the country's gross domestic product.

Prior to assuming command of DESRON 50, Mai worked as head of Surface Nuclear Programs and Policy at Naval Personnel Command, Millington, Tenn.

"I am excited to continue the great work of Capt. Van Deusen and his team," said Mai. "I look forward to expanding on the coalition and multi-national relationships in theater."

DESRON 50 conducts MSO in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations. These operations help develop security in the maritime environment, which promotes stability and global prosperity. The operations complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.