SAN DIEGO – Capt. Jay Higgins assumed command of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 1 from Capt. Josh Preston during a change-of-command ceremony held at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, Aug. 28, 2026.
Preston served as deputy commander from Jan. 2025 to May 2026 and acting commander from May to Aug. 2026. He successfully led the EODGRU-1 staff and seven units of action in support of Navy, joint and multinational mission requirements across three geographic combatant command areas of responsibility. Leading EOD force redesign implementation efforts, Preston streamlined readiness and increased the authority and flexibility of unit commanders to train their units.
“What stands out most about this team is our dedication to each other," said Preston. "This has been a time period that demanded more from all of us, and I watched this team step up and rise to meet it, raising the standard for ourselves every day. I am immensely proud of the men and women I have worked alongside during my time at EODGRU-1, and I trust Capt. Higgins will continue driving our force in the right direction.”
Preston will continue to serve as commander, Mine Countermeasures Group 3 out of San Diego.
Higgins arrives in San Diego from Virginia Beach, Va. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1993 and later completed training at Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal in 1997. After achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer, he was commissioned as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal officer in 2005. He previously commanded EOD Mobile Unit 11 out of Imperial Beach, Calif.
“Assuming command is both a privilege and a responsibility I welcome with great pride," said Higgins. "Thank you to Capt. Preston for leading this force at the highest standard under demanding conditions. I'm eager to serve alongside the men and women of EODGRU-1, build on the strong foundation already in place, and move forward together toward whatever challenges lie ahead.”
Vice Adm. Marc Miguez, commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, presided over the ceremony. He noted the impact of Preston’s leadership and the challenges and opportunities for Higgins moving forward.
“Capt. Preston, outstanding work. Stepping up as both deputy and acting commander, you steered this team with absolute precision at a time when expeditionary readiness and adaptability were non-negotiable. The operational environment we face demands constant focus and high-end agility. I have complete confidence that under Capt. Higgins’s leadership, this group will continue to push the envelope and raise the bar for operational excellence.”
EODGRU-1 is a critical part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command that clears explosive hazards to provide access to denied areas, employs advanced tactics and technologies to exploit and secure the undersea domain for freedom of maneuver, builds and fosters relationships with trusted partners, and protects the nation.