USS Stockdale Holds Change of Command Ceremony

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Abigayle Lutz | 181101-N-FK318-0087 PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 1, 2018) Cmdr. Leonard Leos, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106), addresses the crew after assuming command of Stockdale during a change of command ceremony held on the fo'c'sle. Stockdale is currently underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Abigayle Lutz)  

PACIFIC OCEAN

11.01.2018

Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Abigayle Lutz 

Carrier Strike Group Three (CSG 3)

PACIFIC OCEAN – A change of command ceremony was held underway on the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106), Nov. 1.

Cmdr. Leonard Leos relieved Cdr. John Halttunen as commanding officer during a ceremony that took place aboard Stockdale’s flight deck.
“Four years ago I stepped onto the decks of DDG 106 and had an instant feeling that there was something different about this ship,” said Halttunen while delivering departing remarks to the crew. “There is energy and spirit on these deck plates that is uncommon, that is special. That simple difference is you. The professionalism, respect, fighting spirit and devotion to mission that we cultivate and perpetuate amongst each other is nothing short of inspiring. You are the envy of other ships, and it has been my privilege to be part of this team and the honor of my life to stand in front of you as your captain.”

Leos officially assumed the title of commanding officer after his orders were read and salutes were rendered. Upon assuming command, Leos delivered remarks to the crew.

“Thanks to the crew, the chief’s mess and the wardroom for a great turnover,” said Leos. “I can honestly say there is no ship in the entire Navy I’d rather be on than Stockdale.”

Leos shares a unique connection to the ship’s namesake, Vice Adm. James Bond Stockdale. Both Leos and Stockdale were fellows at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution.

Stockdale was a Medal of Honor recipient for his actions as a leader while imprisoned in Vietnam.

“The toughness which Admiral Stockdale displayed is a source of inspiration for us all,” said Leos. “He may have been knocked down, but he was never out of the fight. I think Admiral Stockdale would be extremely proud of the tough Sailors I am blessed to command. Like him, they love our country and what it stands for, work and train hard under tough conditions, and are ready for any contingency.”

Before releasing the crew to carry out the plan of the day, Leos discussed the importance of a ready and capable crew when out to sea.

“This great crew of warriors will be ready for action,” said Leos. “We will be ready to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations at sea. All while taking care of your fellow shipmates, your brothers and sisters next to you--and then we will return with honor.”

Stockdale is currently underway conducting routine operations as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3 in the U.S. Pacific Fleet area of operation.

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• Date Taken: 11.01.2018
• Date Posted: 11.19.2018 06:24
• Story ID: 300449
• Location: PACIFIC OCEAN