VIRGINA BEACH, Va. – Capt. Paul O’Brien transferred authority of command to Capt. Santico Valenzuela as the 28th commanding officer of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) during a change of command ceremony at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, April 2, 2026.
O'Brien's command was defined by his leadership in preparing for and executing the ship's complex selected restricted availability (SRA). He successfully guided Wasp’s crew through the initial transition into BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair and oversaw the majority of the demanding maintenance period before his departure. As Wasp begins its transition back to Naval Station Norfolk, O'Brien will continue his naval career at Afloat Training Group, Norfolk.
A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, O’Brien graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1999. His previous sea assignments include service aboard USS Arthur Radford (DD 968), USS Princeton (CG 59), USS Antietam (CG 54), and USS Ramage (DDG 61).
“It’s been an honor to serve with you all,” said O’Brien. “You’ve given so much to me. I’m 100% confident you are still the number one ship in the Navy because you are the number one crew in the Navy.”
Valenzuela, who previously served as Wasp’s executive officer, now takes the helm. His career includes command of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 2 (HSC-2), the “Fleet Angels,” and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 14 (HSC-14), the “Chargers.” He also completed two forward-deployed tours in Guam with the “Island Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 (HSC-25).
“To the Sailors, Marines, and civilians of the USS Wasp, the first in its class, the first and finest, I am honored and humbled to serve as your commanding officer,” said Valenzuela. “Our warship is more than steel and systems, it’s a living team whose strength comes from discipline, trust, and shared purpose.”
Capt. Bryan Carmichael, commodore of Commander, Naval Surface Group Middle Atlantic, served as the guest speaker and presiding officer. Carmichael celebrated O’Brien’s achievements and successful tour as the ship's commanding officer.
“You empowered your Sailors, and their incredible success is a direct reflection of your leadership,” said Carmichael. “As you depart, you leave a legacy of excellence that will endure.”
USS Wasp is the tenth U.S. Navy vessel to bear the name and serves as the lead ship of its class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships. Commissioned on July 29, 1989, the ship is currently homeported at Naval Station Norfolk while undergoing maintenance at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair in Portsmouth, Virginia.