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USS Jacksonville Welcomes Aboard New CO During Change of Command

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110205-03
2/5/2011

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- USS Jacksonville (SSN 699) held a change of command ceremony at the submarine piers aboard Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Feb. 4.

Cmdr. Nathan Sukols relieved Cmdr. Tyler Meador as commanding officer of Jacksonville.

"Cmdr. Meador's drive, determination and adaptable leadership, coupled with the perseverance of his crew, successfully conducted several missions vital to national security during his tour, and I commend him and his crew on these successes," said Capt. Daryl Caudle, commander, Submarine Squadron 3. "Under his leadership, Jacksonville was hands down the most reliable, well trained and tactically proficient fast attack submarine in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility."

Meador was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his exceptional performance as commanding officer from Dec. 2008 to Feb. 2011.

In his closing remarks, Cmdr. Meador acknowledged that the majority of the submarine's success during his time as commanding officer could be attributed to the crew and their hard work efforts.

"To the crew of Jacksonville, good manning is the first step in achieving success, and I thank you on the hard work you do on a daily basis," said Meador. "There is no way for me to recognize everyone's contributions or summarize every success. Your professionalism is exceptional, and I am proud of each and every one of you."

As Cmdr. Sukols assumed command of Jacksonville, he too recognized the quality of the crew he was inheriting and promised to carry on the excellence.

"I look forward to serving with all of you on this pristine war ship," said Sukols. "I would also like to recognize all my shipmates that are here, you are my teachers and my teammates, and a huge reason why I am here today."

Cmdr. Meador entered the Navy through the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate program while completing his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Washington in 1989.

His sea tours include USS Will Rogers (SSBN 659), USS Greeneville (SSN 772) and USS Wyoming (SSBN 742).