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Joint Region Marianas Hosts Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090716-05
Release Date: 7/16/2009 4:19:00 PM

By Oyaol Ngirairikl, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Joint Region Marianas held a change of command ceremony at Guam High School on U.S. Naval Hospital Guam's base in Santa Rita July 16.

Rear Adm. Douglass Biesel relieved Rear Adm. William French as commander, Joint Region Marianas (CJRM), as well as U.S. Defense Representative, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and Republic of Palau; and Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Marianas.

The guest speaker, Vice Adm. Michael Vitale, commander Navy Installations Command, praised French's leadership to build stronger relationships between various military branches and between the military and island community. Vitale said French's commitment to his nation and to the local community is reflected in the success of Joint Region Marianas.

"Joint Region Marianas is a crucial command in the Pacific and is growing in importance each day," Vitale said. "And Bill's commitment is a primary reason it's been so successful."

Vitale added that with the changes happening on island and in the region, Biesel is the right person to step in as CJRM, ensuring a solid level of continuity from one regional commander to another.

"We're very fortunate to have Doug leading Joint Region Marianas as it continues its successful journey," Vitale said.

French spoke to the men and women of Guam, uniformed and civilian, about maintaining the spirit of patriotism and working together to create a safer, brighter future for generations.

"Today's ceremony isn't about a single individual. It's about a great command, great accomplishments, great people and a great community," said French. "Guam is a small island, but it has a global reach. Whether sending an explosive ordnance detachment to support the war in Iraq or deploying a SEAL unit to an undesignated location, Guam is central to our nation's defense."

French said Biesel's joint experience will benefit the region. Biesel supervised the consolidation of most U.S. naval installation facilities in Washington state, west of Puget Sound, as the first commanding officer of Naval Base Kitsap.

"We have proven our adaptability and responsiveness to meet a changing security landscape, but, above all, we hope and pray that our efforts will deter conflict and promote a more stable and peaceful world," Biesel said.

"I will dedicate my energies to continue your outstanding efforts that Admiral Bill French had the privilege of leading… It will be an honor and a privilege for me to serve with such a professional and dedicated team as we face the challenges in the years ahead."

For more news from U.S. Naval Forces, Marianas, visit www.navy.mil/local/guam/.