Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Scott Barnes | 250918-N-EI510-1130 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (Sep. 18, 2025) Cmdr....... read more read more
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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (Sep. 18, 2025) - Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) conducted a change of command ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Sep. 18, 2025. Cmdr. Alex Rinaldi relieved Cmdr. Jeff Bernhardt as Mississippi’s commanding officer.
Bernhardt addressed the crew of Mississippi and thanked them for their accomplishments during his tenure as commanding officer. "Behind every milestone Mississippi achieved stands a team whose dedication, resilience, and trust made it possible," said Bernhardt. "The reputation that Mississippi possesses is a direct result of your hard work and perseverance that I am eternally grateful to receive as your commanding officer. I am proud to have stood alongside such a remarkable group of individuals, and I am confident you'll continue to do so for the years to come."
Under Bernhardt’s leadership, Mississippi completed several key missions during their most recent western Pacific deployment. The crew’s performance resulted in Mississippi being awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation, demonstrating Mississippi’s outstanding service to the Submarine Force and the nation.
Bernhardt will go on to serve as deputy for training and operations on the staff of commander, Submarine Squadron 7 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
Capt. Aaron Peterson, director of training, tactical development, and doctrine, commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SUBPAC), served as guest speaker at the ceremony and commented on Bernhardt’s successful tour in command. “His steady hand has guided Mississippi to this point,” said Peterson. “Your leadership has ensured that the ship remains a vital asset in the Navy’s global mission. We thank you for your service, your vision and commitment to excellence.”
Prior to taking command of Mississippi, Rinaldi served as deputy for mine warfare on the SUBPAC staff.
“I am honored and humbled to stand before you as your commanding officer. I know the reputation this crew carries, one of excellence, toughness and quiet professionalism,” said Rinaldi. “I am excited for the journey ahead, confident in the team before me and eager to see what all we will accomplish together.”
Mississippi’s keel was laid down June 9, 2010, and was commissioned June 2, 2012. Measuring 377 feet long and displacing more than 7,800 tons, Mississippi has a crew of approximately 140 Sailors. Mississippi, assigned to Submarine Squadron 1, is capable of supporting various missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations forces support, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
The Pacific Submarine Force provides strategic deterrence, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, precision land strike, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, early warning, and special warfare capabilities around the globe.
| Date Taken: | 09.18.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.19.2025 17:19 |
| Story ID: | 548803 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, HAWAII, US |
| Web Views: | 228 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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