SAN DIEGO (March 8, 2019) – The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Scout (MCM 8) conducted a change of command ceremony at Naval Base San Diego, March 8.
Lt. Cmdr. Eric J. Blomberg was relieved by Lt. Cmdr. Shawn R. Callihan as Scout’s commanding officer during the ceremony. Rear Adm. David A. Welch, Commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center officiated over the change of command.
“We, as a force, need to focus on what, so what, and what’s next,” said Rear Adm. Welch. “It is the job of the captain to translate this mission and vision into orders for our Sailors.”
Lt. Cmdr. Blomberg stated his confidence that his relief, who previously served as Scout’s executive officer, will prove to be an excellent leader and commanding officer.
“The ship is going to be in fantastic hands,” said Lt. Cmdr. Blomberg. “Scout needs a CO with a lot of operational experience and a skilled mariner to train the junior officers as Scout ventures further and further away from the familiar waters of San Diego.”
During his remarks, Lt. Cmdr. Callihan professed his appreciation for Lt. Cmdr. Blomberg’s time as commanding officer and wished him well in his future endeavors.
“I am honored and humbled to continue to serve with you as I make the move from XO to CO,” Lt. Cmdr. Callihan said.
Lt. Cmdr. Blomberg was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his outstanding efforts as commanding officer of Scout.
The change of command is a time-honored ceremony where the formal transfer of authority responsibility for a ship passes to the new commanding officer. During the ceremony, the orders to depart and assume command are read aloud to the crew, providing a continuation of official leadership and trust.
| Date Taken: | 03.08.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 03.15.2019 14:08 |
| Story ID: | 314426 |
| Location: | SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 89 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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