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USS Kearsarge Changes Command

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110630-18
6/30/2011

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/FMF) Chad V. Pritt, USS Kearsarge Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) held their change of command ceremony in Norfolk June 30..

The ceremony was held aboard Kearsarge with Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group TWO, Rear Adm. Kevin D. Scott as the guest speaker as Capt. Dorian F. Jones relieved Capt. Baxter A. Goodly.

Goodly, of Lake Charles, La., speaking to assembled guests, acknowledged the crew's accomplishments over the past three years as they supported humanitarian relief operations and engaged in Operations Unified Protector and Odyssey Dawn in Libya.

"They have responded with compassion to the cries of help emanating from a storm-ravaged Haiti," Goodly said. "They have answered the call to arms when cries for freedom and democracy rang out from the brutalized citizens of Libya. Their hard work and selfless sacrifices have made a difference and they have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that the United States Navy's amphibious forces are not only the most versatile units in our inventory, but they are truly a force for good throughout the world."

Goodly will report to the Joint Chiefs of Staff where he will serve as Joint Staff J5, Western Europe/Balkans Division Chief.

Jones, a native of Austin, Texas, became the 13th Kearsarge commanding officer shortly after 10:30 a.m., after serving as executive officer since last February.

"We have challenges ahead, and I look forward to facing them with you." Jones said.

Jones graduated from Austin College in Sherman, Texas, with a Liberal Arts Degree in English and History in 1984. Since then, he has attended Army Command and Staff College and the Armed Forces Staff College. His awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and various other personal and campaign medals.

Kearsarge is preparing for a four-month yard period later this year.