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USS Ramage Holds Change of Command

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110815-16
8/15/2011

From USS Ramage Public Affairs

RHODES, Greece (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) held a change of command ceremony in Rhodes, Greece, Aug. 12.

Cmdr. Kyle J. Colton relieved Cmdr. Erik J. Eslich as commanding officer.

"By any and every measure, Ramage and her crew have performed superbly under the leadership of Eslich," said Capt. Dan Shaffer, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60, guest speaker for the ceremony. "Through what can only be described as an eye-watering schedule, facing one challenge after another, Eslich has radiated calm, that most important quality of commanding officers."

After serving as the executive officer for six months, Eslich assumed command of Ramage in January 2010. He led the crew during two successful deployments, two compressed training cycles, and through a rigorous inspection and survey assessment.

Eslich expressed his pride in Ramage's crew, thanking them for their hard work and determination through a difficult schedule.

"It was your attitude and dedication that carried the day," said Eslich. "I thank you for your loyalty, dedication and confidence."

Colton, a 1994 graduate from United States Naval Academy, noted that he looks forward to leading the crew.

"I cannot begin to explain how proud I am to take command of such a fantastic group of professionals and such a great ship," said Colton. "I could not be more honored to be your captain."

Shaffer presented Eslich with a Meritorious Service Medal on behalf of Rear Adm. Cliff Sharpe, commander of Carrier Strike Group 8. Eslich will leave Ramage to attend the Joint Forces Staff College and will return to Washington, D.C., in the Joint Theater Air and Missile Defense directorate.

Ramage is homeported out of Norfolk, Va., and is currently supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th fleet area of responsibility.