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USS Hawaii Changes Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100108-04
Release Date: 1/8/2010 9:54:00 AM

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Josh Thompson, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- A change of command ceremony was held for the Virginia-class submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776) at Naval Station Pearl Harbor Jan. 7.

Cmdr. Stephen Mack relieved Cmdr. Edward Herrington as commanding officer of Hawaii.

Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle, the ship's sponsor, praised Herrington and his recent accomplishments on board Hawaii.

"Cmdr. Herrington demands a very high level of excellence of his Sailors, as I know he does from himself," said Lingle. "It's evident in the way he conducts himself professionally. He is an exceptional leader, well organized, poised and thoughtful."

Following her remarks, Herrington was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (Gold Star in lieu of third award) for his exceptional performance as commanding officer from August 2007 to January 2010.

Herrington reflected on the many successes of his crew.

"Like the great people we represent, USS Hawaii has a true warrior mentality with a strong sense of ohana (family)," said Herrington. "We have great people who make tremendous sacrifices serving their country on a daily basis."

Since assuming command in August 2007, Herrington has lead Hawaii's crew to victory, as the ship received the U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, as well as the 2009 Submarine Squadron 1 Engineering 'E' and the 2009 Submarine Squadron 4 Damage Control DC.

As Mack assumed command of Hawaii, he too acknowledged the quality of the crew he was inheriting.

"To the warriors of Hawaii, I have been impressed with your enthusiasm, espirit de corps, and high personal and professional standards," said Mack. "I look forward to sailing with you over the coming years."

Herrington earned his commission through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps at the Virginia Military Institute in 1989, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering.

His sea tours include USS Stonewall Jackson (SSBN 634)(Gold), USS Toledo (SSN 769), USS Narwhal (SSN 671) and USS Seawolf (SSN 21). His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (five awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (three awards) and additional unit awards.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/subpac/.