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Navy Reserve U.S. 10th Fleet Holds Change of Command Ceremony

Navy News Service

Navy Reserve U.S. 10th Fleet Holds Change of Command Ceremony
Story Number: NNS111208-19
12/8/2011

From U.S. Fleet Cyber Command / U.S. 10th Fleet Public Affairs

FORT MEADE, Md. (NNS) -- Navy Reserve U.S. 10th Fleet held a change of command ceremony at Fort George G. Meade, Dec. 3.

Capt. Daniel J. MacDonnell relieved Capt. Karen J. Hard as commanding officer.

Originally designated as Navy Reserve Navy Information Operations Command Fort Meade and aligned with Navy Information Operations Command Maryland, the unit officially stood up in October 2010 as the Navy's first Cyber reserve unit supporting U.S. Tenth Fleet. Since its stand up, NR C10F has complemented the Navy's active duty cyber capabilities by providing strategic depth and operational flexibility.

Vice Adm. Michael S. Rogers, who presided over the ceremony as the commander of U.S. Fleet Cyber Command and U.S. 10th Fleet, emphasized the importance of Reserve integration to the U.S. 10th Fleet mission.

During her tour, Hard successfully integrated the Reserve component with their active duty counterparts. Reserve personnel routinely supported the Tenth Fleet Maritime Operations Center providing necessary backfill for active duty members who deployed forward. Reserve personnel were also critical in developing and presenting the Navy all-hands cyber security training prototype as well as developing concept of operations for support to cyber exercises and cyber planning efforts.

Prior to reading her orders, Hard offered her gratitude and appreciation for the unit members, recognizing those who had mobilized, and encouraged all to continue to their exceptional work.

"At my change of command two years ago, I challenged our unit members to keep a focused balance between the many aspects of your lives - your family, your full-time career, and your part-time job with the Navy reserve. Since then, I have gained a new appreciation for everything you put into your Navy Reserve career, while also advancing your civilian profession, and ensuring you spend quality time with family and friends," Hard said. "Although we've made significant progress, there is still opportunity for growth. I know NR Tenth Fleet unit members will support Capt. MacDonnell in further maturing cyber support to Tenth Fleet."

MacDonnell lauded Hard and her unit for their effort over the past two years and the successful integration they have accomplished.

"[Hard] and her crew have accomplished much during her tenure. But just as important, she has laid the groundwork, the foundation so that her relief can take it to the next level," MacDonnell said. "We have made huge progress in integrating our reserve forces into the active forces. Today you cannot distinguish between a Reserve Sailor or active duty Sailor on the watch floors. This would not be possible without the active duty engaging with reservists and truly making them a part of the team. Trust me when I say that the active reserve integration at this command is the model for other commands to emulate."

Prior to concluding his remarks, MacDonnell spoke directly to the Sailors of NR C10F.

"To the Sailors, chiefs and officers of NR Tenth Fleet, clearly you all are doing some awesome work here at Tenth Fleet. My goal is to build upon your past successes and continue to move the unit forward. We need to continue to leverage both our military and civilian capabilities and skills," he said. "My mission is to bring out the best in your capabilities, align them to the active duty force in order to optimize our contributions to the command and to make a difference. We will execute the commanders' imperative - to achieve operational advantage in our mission areas."



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