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USS Louisville Holds Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100109-01
Release Date: 1/9/2010 8:54:00 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 Los Angeles-class submarine USS Louisville (SSN 724) at Naval Station Pearl Harbor Jan. 8.

Cmdr. Lee Sisco relieved Cmdr. John Sager as commanding officer of Louisville.

Guest speaker, Capt. Philip McLaughlin, commanding officer USS Michigan (SSGN 727) (Gold), praised Sager and his crew on their accomplishments on board Louisville.

"Louisville has had amazing challenges that she stood up to and executed brilliantly," said McLaughlin. "Cmdr. Sager, I want to congratulate you and your crew on a job well done. You have earned the reputation of 'Best of the Breed'."

Following his remarks, Sager was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (Gold Star in lieu of the Third Award) for his exceptional performance as commanding officer from March 2007 to January 2010.

Sager reflected on his time spent in command.

"I will always have a part of 'Best of the Breed' within me," said Sager. "It has been an absolute pleasure being your commanding officer and sailing with each of you."

As Sisco assumed command of Louisville, he acknowledged the quality of the crew he was inheriting.

"You have impressed me with your level of commitment, professionalism and tactical and technical ability," said Sisco. "I look forward to sailing with you on this incredible warship."

Sager earned his commission through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps at the University of South Florida in 1989, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering.

His sea tours include USS Tennessee (SSBN 734)(Blue), USS West Virginia (SSBN 736)(Gold) and USS Connecticut (SSN 22). His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards) and additional unit awards.

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