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'Largest Group of Operational Submarines' Gets New Commander

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090710-13
Release Date: 7/10/2009 2:39:00 PM

By Lt. Patrick Evans, Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Commander, Submarine Squadron 2 held a change of command ceremony July 10 at Naval Submarine Base New London's Shepherd of the Sea Chapel.

Capt. Peter Clarke relieved Capt. Emil Casciano as commanding officer.

"No other submarine squadron accomplished what we did over the past two years," said Casciano, a native of Newton, N.J. "With seven boats assigned, we had the largest group of operational submarines in the force and were able to prepare and evaluate six of those seven boats in one year. We've accomplished an incredible task, and I am grateful that I had such a gifted staff that showed up to work on a daily basis with passion, enthusiasm and balance."

During Casciano's tour as commodore, he ensured that the crews aboard the submarines assigned to Squadron 2 were well-trained and ready for a wide variety of missions, including dry-deck shelter special naval warfare missions and undersea exploration during deployments to every regional combatant commander's theater. In addition, Squadron 2 became the first Groton waterfront squadron to be certified to use the new electronic navigation systems.

"He was a part of each of the submarines under his command," said Rear Adm. Paul Bushong, commander, Submarine Group 2, who served as guest speaker. "He had an in-depth knowledge of their leadership teams, to include their strengths and weaknesses. He used this, with his unmatched knowledge of submarines, operations, and current tactical guidance, to mentor, train and lead each of his submarines. He added value to each submarine and each crew. There can be no better measure of leadership."

Casciano will next serve on the staff of Commander, Submarine Force in Norfolk, Va.

Clarke was born in Panama City, Panama, and grew up in Richmond, Va. Before taking the helm at Submarine Squadron 2, he served as special assistant to the director, naval nuclear propulsion. Previously, he served as the commanding officer aboard USS Rhode Island (SSBN 740) Gold; executive officer aboard USS Cheyenne (SSN 773) and engineer aboard USS Kentucky (SSBN 737) Gold.

"Emil, thank you for turning over such a well-honed staff and an exceptionally trained squadron of submarines," said Clarke. "You left an indelible mark on an entire generation of submariners, and the force is better for it.

"To the commanding officers and crews of the ships that compromise Submarine Squadron 2, I am proud of the opportunity to help you succeed in accomplishing your mission. And, I assure you that my staff and I will do everything in our power to assist you and your families as you make the many sacrifices you will be called upon to do."

For more news from Commander Submarine Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/local/Subgru2/.