USS Alexandria holds Change of Command

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Ronald Gutridge | 190405-N-UK333-145 SAN DIEGO (April 5, 2019) Cmdr. Todd Santala, is piped ashore after being relieved by Cmdr. Christoper Carter as commanding officer of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Alexandria (SSN 757) during a change of command ceremony at Naval Base Point Loma. Commissioned June 29, 1991, the submarine is more than 360 feet long and displaces more than 6,900 tons. Alexandria is capable of supporting various missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, strike warfare, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ronald Gutridge)  

UNITED STATES

04.05.2019

Story by Lt. Courtney Callaghan 

Commander, Submarine Squadron 11

SAN DIEGO -- Cmdr. Chris Carter relieved Cmdr. Todd Santala as commanding officer of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Alexandria (SSN 757) during a change of command ceremony on Naval Base Point Loma, Apr. 5.

Capt. Chris Cavanaugh, commander, Submarine Squadron 11, was the guest speaker at the ceremony. He congratulated Santala on a job well done.
“Todd Santala is a quiet and humble professional. He leads by example, both in terms and competency, and he drives those around him to high standards of performance,” said Cavanaugh.
Following his remarks, Capt. Cavanaugh presented Santala with a Meritorious Service Medal for his exceptional performance as commanding officer from April 2016 to April 2019.
Santala then addressed those in attendance.
“While I spoke earlier of the capabilities of this awesome warship that I am standing on right now, even more impressive is the endless energy, tactical edge, technical skill and determination of the officers and crew that bring this machine to life and earn Alexandria’s reputation,” said Santala. “There is no doubt that the crew of this nuclear powered submarine is a composite unit of warriors ready to go into harm’s way if required to support and defend our constitution and country.”
Upon assuming command, Carter, from Washington D.C., addressed the crew about the future of Alexandria.

"To the crew of Alexandria, thank you for allowing me to get to know you these last few weeks and accepting me into the Alexandria family. The future is bright and I look forward to leading you into it,” said Carter.
Commissioned June 29, 1991, Alexandria is more than360 feet long and displaces more than 6,900 tons and is capable of supporting various missions, including anti-submarine warfare

• Date Taken: 04.05.2019
• Date Posted: 04.09.2019 18:49
• Story ID: 317506
• Location: US