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Submarine Squadron Six Holds Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100917-10
9/17/2010

By Kevin Copeland, Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Commander, Submarine Squadron 6 (SUBRON 6) held a change-of-command ceremony on board USS Albany (SSN 753), aboard Naval Station Norfolk Sept. 17.

Capt. Eugene P. Sievers relieved Capt. Christopher B. Thomas as commanding officer.

"The change of command continues a tradition established long ago by men who served their nation at sea," said Rear Adm. Michael McLaughlin, commander, Submarine Group Two. "It is the Navy's way of passing awesome responsibilities and authority into the hands of a single officer. Our Navy's success is dependent upon the quality of our leaders, and, in my opinion, the role of commodore is essential in helping to mold and grow those leaders through training and mentoring.

"Capt. Thomas and Capt. Sievers are proven leaders," said McLaughlin. "They have met the responsibilities of command and have accounted very well for themselves. Christopher, as commodore of Squadron 6, you have demonstrated the capabilities and of leadership and command some officers just seem to be born with. Thank you for setting the bar high for others who follow.

"You've been an excellent example of the kind of leadership we will need to meet the challenges we face in the 21st century. Congratulations for the excellent job you have done here, and I would like to officially recognize your efforts," said McLaughlin.

McLaughlin then presented Thomas with his second Legion of Merit award for his inspirational leadership in successfully preparing and deploying five fast-attack submarines, for developing and executing the first Atlantic Fast-Attack Deployed Submarine Assessment, accomplishing one of the most rewarding Submarine Docking Selected Restricted Shipyard Availabilities in years, and for shaping the plan to consolidate Norfolk submarine organizations into one squadron.

A native of Columbus, Ohio, and a 1984 graduate of Miami University, Thomas assumed command of SUBRON Six in August, 2008.

"I will be leaving next week for the Persian Gulf to become the chief of staff of Carrier Strike Group Ten embarked on USS Harry S. Truman," said Thomas. "Friends have asked me if I would miss being on submarines, and my initial and sincere answer was of course. Then I begin pondering why I would miss submarining.

"A prime consideration of mine in joining the submarine force 26 years ago was the fact that submarines were engineering marvels and the technology intoxicating. While the technology and capabilities are impressive, they are not the primary reason why I love submarining. It is the privilege to work with and for the men of the submarine force that I will truly miss.

"We are blessed with the best young men, and soon women, that the country has to offer. Twice or thrice they volunteer for duty on board these magnificent ships. They endure hardships and stresses which would break many, but they are of great character and have been tested in the crucible of intensive operations.

"They go through extensive training to prepare them for operations in peace and war. They deploy to conduct operations in some of the most demanding waters around the world for six to seven months at a time away from family and loved ones. They return home and repeat the process. It is not an easy life.

"In parting, I have a continuing challenge for the staff and crews – be experts of your systems. Everyday each of you must work to improve your level of expertise and then train your reliefs. Inspire your men to be hungry for knowledge and operational excellence. Challenge and lead your men to heights they do not know they can achieve. They will not disappoint you," said Thomas.

Sievers is a native of Johnstown, Pa., and a 1987 graduate of West Virginia University. Before assuming command of SUBRON 6, he previously served on the staff at Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic.

"I am excited to be back on the waterfront with the officers and crew of USS Albany, USS Montpelier, USS Norfolk, and USS Scranton," said Sievers. "These men and their ships represent a submarine force that has remained relevant and essential to the nation's security through a very dynamic period that included very tight fiscal constraints and a changing threat.

"It is a testament to the leadership of Commodore Thomas in making informed, forceful decisions at each critical juncture that kept the ships at sea performing the missions necessary to keep the nation safe. Thanks for the great turnover. Again to the men of the staff and the crews of the submarines of Squadron 6, thank you for your service. I look forward to tackling the coming challenges," said Sievers.

SUBRON 6 exercises operational control over four Los Angeles-class attack submarines home ported in Norfolk, Va. The squadron staff is responsible for training and preparing their submarines and crew in all facets of operations, including tactical and operational readiness for war, inspection and monitoring, nuclear and radiological safety, and development and control of submarine operating schedules.