MANAMA, Bahrain - Rear Adm. Peg Klein relieved Rear Adm. Sinclair Harris as Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 5 at a change of command ceremony held at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Nov. 14.
Harris took command of ESG 5 as its first commander, Nov. 8, 2009. As ESG 5, Harris commanded U.S. Task Forces 51, 52, 55 and 59, overseeing a wide range of missions including maritime security operations and crisis response.
While in command of Task Force 59, Harris was responsible for Navy and Marine Corps recent flood relief efforts in Pakistan.
"This is where the action is, this is where everything happens," said Harris. "The U.S. Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps come together like no where else."
Harris wished Klein the best and encouraged her to enjoy her time with ESG 5.
"You are in for a most fascinating tour here in Fifth Fleet. You will write new and greater chapters in the future as commander of Expeditionary Strike Group Five," said Harris.
During her speech, Klein thanked Harris for his hard work in getting ESG 5 to its current state and expressed her excitement for her new command.
"I know that our country demands much from us. We will deliver ready, capable people. We will deliver ready, capable ships and aircraft," said Klein. "We will provide options for you as have been delivered so capably by Rear Adm. Harris and his team this past year."
Additionally, Klein welcomed the staff that she would be working with over the year to come.
"To the second ESG 5 staff, welcome. I appreciate your service and time away from your families. It is our time to take the reins," she said.
Vice Adm. Mark Fox, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces, praised ESG 5 for its hard work and dedication.
"The ships and crews commanded by ESG 5 have been, in essence, NAVCENT and 5th Fleet's Swiss Army knife; our utility infielder, possessing every kind of tool we've needed to get every mission done, and done well," said Fox.
"Success does not come from one person.success comes from teamwork," said Fox. "Because of the quality of leadership, ESG 5 and the amphibious fleet continue to expand and enhance their capabilities."
ESG 5 was established to support amphibious forces deployed to the region, mine warfare, contingency response missions and maritime humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility.