USS Mahan holds change of command at sea

Photo By Michael S Murphy | Cmdr. Joe Matison salutes sideboys as they render him honors as the new commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) following the ship's change of command ceremony. Mahan is supporting maritime security operations, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Michael Murphy/Released)  

USS MAHAN, AT SEA

11.04.2014

Courtesy Story

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command / U.S. 5th Fleet           

USS MAHAN – Cmdr. Joseph Matison relieved Cmdr. Zoah Scheneman as commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) at a change of command ceremony held on the ship’s forecastle while underway in the Arabian Gulf Nov. 4.

Scheneman spoke of his experiences while in command of the Mahan and to the pride he has in his crew who helped build on the ship’s reputation as one of the “workhorses” of the Atlantic fleet.

“You are doing things your friends and peers only dream about, exercising more mental and physical muscle than any of your counterparts back home, and I’m infinitely proud of you and forever indebted. Keep focused, keep positive, and keep at it so that life will bring you good things. Thank you for doing the things you do and keep pushing”, said Scheneman.

Matison commented about his predecessor’s legacy and the privilege of assuming command of the Mahan.

“Cmdr. Scheneman, thank you so much for the leadership, guidance, dedication and help you have provided the ship these past three years,” said Matison, “ And for the crew of Mahan, time and time again you have proven successful and strived to outdo yourselves with better scores, spaces, efficiency, preparedness, and behavior. We must finish strong on this deployment and safely return home to our families and friends.”

Scheneman departs the Mahan to report as Deputy Commodore, Destroyer Squadron 26 based out of Norfolk, Virginia. Matison assumes command of the Mahan after having served as executive officer since April 12, 2013.

USS Mahan, home ported in Norfolk, Virginia, is currently supporting maritime security operations, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

• Date Taken: 11.04.2014
• Date Posted: 11.05.2014 05:38
• Story ID: 147005
• Location: USS MAHAN, AT SEA