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NSSC New London Changes Commanders

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110219-04
2/19/2011

By Lt. Patrick Evans, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs Officer

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Command of Naval Submarine Support Center (NSSC) New London changed hands during a ceremony Feb. 18 at Naval Submarine Base New London's Shepherd of the Sea Chapel.

Cmdr. Timothy P. Kollmer relieved Cmdr. Bryan C. Still as commanding officer of NSSC, which provides support to Submarine Squadrons 2 and 4 and Submarine Development Squadron 12, all based at the installation.

During Still's tour as commanding officer, NSSC improved its quality of support to submarines and staffs. It also increased efficiency in supporting submarine operations, maintenance and repair, setting a new standard for shore-based submarine support.

"Bryan's responsible leadership behind-the-scenes allowed submarine commanding officers to focus on the operational readiness of his crew," said guest speaker Capt. Frank Lowery, Chief of Staff of Submarine Group 2.

During the ceremony, Still praised NSSC's staff, which he led since February 2009, and other organizations that supported submarines in Groton.

"You amaze me with your dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism. Thanks to your efforts, ships were appropriately manned, and critical gaps and shortfalls were quickly addressed," said Still, referring to NSSC.

"I've been consistently impressed by the spirit of cooperation and sense of shared purpose that animates organizations on Submarine Base New London," Still continued. "Working together with our sub base partners and other organizations across the submarine force, we have accomplished far more than we would have otherwise accomplished alone."

Calling him a "remarkable, gifted and talented officer," Lowery presented Still with his second Meritorious Service Medal. In the award, Still was cited for using "innovative initiatives, novel ideas and strategic partnerships to put NSSC at the forefront of dramatic changes to the Submarine Force and New London waterfront."

Still, a native of Joplin, Mo., will next attend the Naval War College.

After assuming command, Kollmer thanked Still "for turning over such a dedicated and professional group of Sailors." Then he turned and spoke directly to the staff.

"You should take great pride in your contributions to our submarine force here in Groton. Mostly working behind-the-scenes, you provide the critical support services that truly enhance the war fighting capabilities of these submarines," said Kollmer.

Kollmer, a native of Ronkonkoma, NY, previously served as deputy commander for readiness, Submarine Squadron 2. He also served as executive officer aboard USS Wyoming (SSBN 742) BLUE and engineering officer aboard USS Maryland (SSBN 738) GOLD.

The scope of NSSC's support includes administrative and personnel; legal; religious; operations; supply; communications; personnel security; information systems; weapons systems maintenance and modernization; weapons handling; and, medical.