SPAWAR Holds a Change of Command Ceremony

Courtesy Photo | A submarine officer, Rear Adm. Patrick H. Brady will take over for Rear Adm. Michael C. Bachmann as Commander of Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command in a change-of-command ceremony held on Aug. 6.  

POINT LOMA, CA, UNITED STATES

08.06.2010

Story by Nicole Collins 

Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR)

SAN DIEGO – The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command held a change of command and retirement ceremony Aug. 6 at SPAWAR Systems Center Pacific in Point Loma, Calif.

Rear Adm. Patrick H. Brady relieved Rear Adm. Michael C. Bachmann as Commander.
Bachmann was recognized for 36 years of dedicated service to the United States Navy and for his leadership of the Navy’s premier center of excellence for the acquisition and development of communication and network systems that give a technological edge to American and coalition partners for the cause of freedom.

“It's been a privilege working with all of you for our great Navy in advancing C4ISR/Cyber/Space and Business Systems for our warfighters, joint service, allies and coalition partners. I am most proud of this Command,” said Bachmann. “Rear Adm. Pat Brady is onboard and anxious to take the helm and continue to advance this domain on behalf of our warfighters,” he stated.

Brady, former deputy commander of the Naval Sea Systems Command, assumes command of 8,900 military and civilians at SPAWAR. A 15 gun salute was rendered for special guest speaker Vice Adm. Michael H. Miller, Chief of Legislative Affairs.

SPAWAR is one of largest employers for military, civilian and industry partners in San Diego. SPAWAR's National Footprint is $9.6 billion with $520 million going directly toward salaries in San Diego. SPAWAR contributes significantly to the Southern California economy; in Fiscal Year 2009, SPAWAR Headquarters awarded more than $2.9 billion in contracts.

“The priorities of our fleet -- the joint warfighter, the intelligence community and other customers -- must continue to be our own priorities,” said Bachmann, who served as SPAWAR’s Commander since Feb. 2006. “It has been an honor working with such a dynamic and dedicated team of men and women,” he said.

Brady returns to San Diego, having commanded a San Diego-based nuclear powered submarine, will encourage sailors and SPAWAR employees to take an active role in the community while remaining focused on SPAWAR’s mission to support the war fighter.

• Date Taken: 08.06.2010
• Date Posted: 08.06.2010 12:33
• Story ID: 54065
• Location: POINT LOMA, CA, US