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Florida Blue Changes Command

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS121006-03
10/6/2012

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) James Kimber, Commander, Submarine Group 10 Public Affairs

KINGS BAY, Ga. (NNS) -- USS Florida (SSGN 728) (Blue) held a change of command ceremony aboard Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., Oct. 5.

Capt. Owen M. Travis relieved Capt. Gregory M. Ott as the commanding officer of the Ohio-class guided missile submarine's blue crew.

After receiving an introduction from Rear Adm. Joseph Tofalo, commander, Submarine Group 10, Ott, a Westfield, N.J. native, said he has been repeatedly humbled by the professionalism of the Florida Blue crew during his two years onboard.

"I've never been more proud of a crew I've been worked with," Ott said. "I can think of no better way to close out my career than to have been a part of this team. If I could give a career Battle 'E' to the best wardroom, to the best Chief's Quarters and the best crew I've served with, it would go to [the Florida Blue] men.

"There are those who will talk about the erosion of the quality of chief petty officers in our Navy. But I tell you, they are wrong. The chiefs I worked with on Florida are the best leaders I've worked with in my 28 years," Ott said. "There are those who will also tell you that the current generation has weak values and a poor work ethic. Once again, I tell you that they are wrong. The young men on the crew impressed me every day. They are our future leaders and our Navy could be in no better hands."

Ott continued to boast of the accomplishments of his crew and thanked the Florida Blue family members for their support of his team. Before the captain read his orders though, Ott delivered his retirement speech thanking his family for their unconditional love and support as he wrapped up his 28-year naval career.

"Above all others, Rebecca is responsible for my success," Ott said, speaking to his wife in front of about 200 people. "Throughout my career, she's been my confidant and my advisor. I've become a much better leader because of her counsel and advice. I'm sure the officers and Sailors under my charge have benefited. She didn't volunteer for this life, but she embraced it."

Quoting Pres. John F. Kennedy, Ott closed his career with one of the former Navy officer's most famous statements.

"I can imagine no more rewarding a career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction, 'I served in the United States Navy.'"