CHINHAE, Republic of Korea (Feb. 23, 2018) -- Cmdr. Jeremy R. Ewing relieved Cmdr. Terry P. McNamara as commander, Fleet Activities Chinhae (CFAC) during a change of command ceremony on the installation Feb. 23.
The ceremony marked the 18th time CFAC has changed command since its establishment in 1984.
“CFAC, is a very unique command,” said Rear Adm. Michael E. Boyle, commander, Navy Region Korea. “not only is it the only U.S. Navy installation here in the Republic of Korea - a very dynamic and challenging environment - it is also just one of the six Navy bases of the 71 U.S. Navy installations, worldwide, that are commanded by a Navy Commander instead of a Navy Captain.”
During his remarks, Boyle emphasized CFAC’s important role in supporting operations and Sailors in the Republic of Korea (ROK) as well as McNamara’s contribution.
“CFAC is of vital importance to our operations here on the peninsula,” said Boyle. “His support to the war-fighters was critically important and ensured we are ready to defend South Korea hand in hand with our strong ally – this readiness translates into an effective deterrent that prevented harsh rhetoric from escalating into conflict.”
During the ceremony, McNamara was presented the Meritorious Service Medal by Boyle for his achievements while serving as Commander, Fleet Activities Chinhae.
McNamara was also presented a citation on behalf of the ROK Chief of Naval Operations by ROK Navy RDML Kim, Yong Kwan, commander, Jinhae Naval Base.
After receiving the awards, McNamara spoke to the crowd of U.S.- ROK military personnel and civilian guests.
“Our alliance is as strong as ever and our combined forces continue to be ready to ‘fight tonight,’” said McNamara. “I know that this base and its people will help to keep it that way for many more years.”
McNamara also thanked his ROK-U.S. civilian and military staff for their support during his two years as CFAC commander.
After his remarks, McNamara read his orders and officially transferred command to Ewing, who expressed his gratitude and commitment to the CFAC staff.
“I look forward to serving with you as we continue to build upon the many great accomplishments that this Navy team has worked so hard to achieve,” said Ewing. “Thank you for providing world class customer service to our fleet, to our war fighters, and to our families.”
CFAC is the only U.S. Navy installation in the Republic of Korea and its mission is to provide on-peninsula service, expertise, and material support to the fleet, Sailors, and civilians and the U.S.-ROK alliance through joint armistice, training exercises, and contingency operations.
McNamara has served as commander of Fleet Activities Chinhae since December 2015 and will next serve as chief staff officer at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokuska.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnfk/.
Date Taken: | 02.23.2018 |
Date Posted: | 02.27.2018 05:13 |
Story ID: | 267322 |
Location: | JINHAE, KR |
Web Views: | 282 |
Downloads: | 1 |
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