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Submarine Squadron 8 Gets New Commander

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090710-10
Release Date: 7/10/2009 5:25:00 AM

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

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Submarine Squadron 8 held a change of command ceremony at the Submarine Learning Facility, Naval Station Norfolk July 9.

Capt. Frank Cattani relieved Capt. Robert Kelso as commander.

"Captain Kelso has served as an outstanding representative of both the submarine community and the Navy," said Vice Adm. John Donnelly, commander, Submarine Force, who served as the principal speaker. "He was also a leader in technical innovation as the first squadron to have all submarines certified to operate solely on electronic navigation."

In addition to spearheading the electronic navigation in his submarines, Kelso also prepared and certified his ships for deployment, while achieving the highest retention of any squadron in the submarine force.

"What a squadron does mostly involves training, advising, facilitating, motivating, mentoring, monitoring, and certifying," said Kelso. "We ensure the crews have the necessary people, skills and equipment to get their jobs done and that they are trained to perform to acceptable standards, ones that must be good enough to safely and effectively operate their ships throughout the world's oceans under very demanding conditions.

"But as a squadron staff, we can't do the hard work necessary to get the ships to sea. That credit must go to the crews, and I have been extremely blessed in having some of the best captains and crews in the submarine force in my squadron. To my captains and squadron staff, thank you for two outstanding years. I have always been impressed by the professionalism and excitement you have demonstrated in operating your ships and by how well you have treated me as your commodore."

Before taking the helm at Submarine Squadron 8, Cattani served as the senior board member on the Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board.

"I appreciate the trust and confidence that my chain of command has shown by placing me in this position of awesome responsibility," said Cattani. "I am excited to be back on the Norfolk waterfront, and I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead."

Kelso's next command will be on the staff of Commander, Submarine Force.

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