CTF 56 Welcomes New Commander

VA, UNITED STATES

11.14.2016

Story by Jennifer Cragg 

Navy Expeditionary Combat Command

Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56 held a change of command ceremony at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Nov. 7.

Capt. Jim McGovern was relieved by Capt. Bradley Andros during the time-honored change of command.

Attending the ceremony were Vice Adm. Kevin Donegan, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command; Marine Brig. Gen. Francis Donovan, commander, 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade; and Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.

Donegan praised McGovern for his expertise and leadership of CTF 56 during his official remarks.

"You answered the call on short notice for a mission you weren't expecting," Donegan said. "You were exactly the right leader at the right time, without missing a beat. I couldn't have asked for a better CTF commander."

McGovern thanked leadership for their guidance, and took time to praise his family who were not able to attend the ceremony.

"I like to thank my wife and daughters for their sacrifice and support throughout my career," said McGovern. "This is the first change of command they have missed, but they are here in spirit. Because of the foundation I have at home, I was able to focus on the mission. I appreciate their support."

During Brakke's remarks, he also praised McGovern for his accomplishments and welcomed Andros to the CTF 56 helm.

"Leaders like Jim and Brad know that people are their biggest strength, possessing true fighting power and the toughness to successfully complete the mission," said Brakke. "And, they do that by being the best at their job."

Brakke added the staff at CTF 56 maintains the responsibility to ensure expeditionary forces are ready on all fronts to carry out the Navy's mission in the 5th Fleet area of operations.

"This team spearheaded by Jim has been focused on solving potential issues through careful and consistent planning, execution, and assessment," said Brakke. "The CTF's success is a direct reflection of Jim's commitment to excellence to ensure our expeditionary combat forces are effective to accomplish the mission where it matters, when it matters, and with what matters."

During McGovern's remarks, he reflected on the caliber of leadership and expertise of the incoming commander.

"Capt. Andros, you have a stellar professional reputation and I know you will do fantastic leading this task force," said McGovern. "I'm a phone call away, but I know you won't need it and I'll sleep easy knowing you have the watch out here, brother."

McGovern ended his speech reflecting on leadership and what it means to serve one's country.

"It's an honor to serve the republic, and it is a privilege to lead at any level," said McGovern. "It was a life privilege to command this task force, and I appreciate the opportunity."

CTF 56 plans and executes expeditionary combat support throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The task force encompasses nine task groups whose missions range from explosive ordnance disposal and navy diving, naval construction forces and expeditionary logistics support, maritime interdiction operations and maritime security, to embarked security teams and combat camera.

• Date Taken: 11.14.2016
• Date Posted: 11.14.2016 09:24
• Story ID: 214542
• Location: VA, US