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New Commanding Officer for USS Alaska (SSBN 732)

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS091123-24
Release Date: 11/23/2009 11:22:00 PM

From Commander Submarine Group 10 Public Affairs

KINGS BAY, Ga. (NNS) -- USS Alaska (SSBN 732) (Blue) held a change of command ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay Chapel, Nov. 23.

Cmdr. Paul Haebler was relieved by Cmdr. Kevin Byrne as commanding officer of the "Kodiak Tough" Alaska.

"In May, I stated that it was a bittersweet day for me when I turned over half of my Alaska family to Cmdr. Cory Jackson as the gold crew. Today completes that transition as Cmdr. Kevin Byrne assumes command of the blue crew," said Haebler. "After nine months away from home, I am excited to be returning to my family in Virginia, but saddened to leave my Alaska family behind."

Haebler took command of Alaska during her refueling overhaul in Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Normally an SSBN submarine has two crews, to maximize the amount of time the submarine can be at sea. While in the shipyard the crews combine to work more efficiently. Haebler and the Alaska crew took efficiency to a new level when the submarine finished its 28-month overhaul more than $2 million under budget and earned two Navy awards for safety.

Haebler's next duty station will be Commander, Submarine Forces as chief of staff, Allied Submarine Command.

Byrne will arrive to Kings Bay from Commander United States Special Operation Command. He is a native of Oakdale, N.Y. and graduated from State University of New York Maritime College.

"I want to offer my best wishes to Cmdr. Haebler for the outstanding job he has done. I look forward to carrying on the traditions he has instilled in the crew," said Byrne. "To the crew of Alaska blue, your achievements to date have been outstanding. The dedication, sacrifice and hard work you have demonstrated are a testament to your pride and professionalism. I am excited to join you."

Alaska is the seventh Trident Ohio-class nuclear powered fleet ballistic missile submarine and the fourth United States Navy ship to bear the name of the state. Alaska was commissioned Jan. 25, 1986 and has conducted 59 strategic deterrent patrols.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 10, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg10/.