A time-honored change of command ceremony was held aboard the Los Angeles-class submarine USS Cheyenne (SSN 773) at the submarine piers at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, May 11.
Cmdr. Gary Rogeness, commanding officer of Cheyenne was relieved by Cmdr. Noel Gonzalez.
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Guest speaker, Retired Vice Adm. Jay Donnelly praised Rogeness for his exceptional performance while commanding Cheyenne as well as the crew on their accomplishments under Rogeness’ leadership.
“Cmdr. Rogeness fostered a culture of high standards, individual empowerment and achievement. His steady strain on day-to-day performance resulted in a crew that was uniformly prepared for all missions. He put his Sailors first and at the same time achieved outstanding operational readiness,” s aid Donnelly “Commander, you have performed marvelously as Cheyenne’s commanding officer and you have made a positive difference.”
Rogeness acknowledged that the majority of the submarine’s success during his time as commanding officer could be attributed to the crew and their hard work.
“Sailors of Cheyenne, you have built a culture of getting it right the first time. It happens because you are committed to being brilliant at the basics, putting shipmate before self and having integrity always. Continue to put those into practice and you will never go wrong. ” said Rogeness. “I am proud to have served you as your commanding officer. I will always treasure our time and experiences we shared as we ‘rode the legend’ together.
Following his remarks, Rogeness was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his exceptional performance as commanding officer from Dec. 2009 to May 2012.
As Cmdr. Gonzalez assumed command of Cheyenne he addressed the crew about the future.
“To the crew of USS Cheyenne, I stand here today not as the best man that I can be, but one that will always be open to inputs to make myself a better man, a better Sailor and a better leader.” said Gonzalez . “ I look forward to serving with you, and I am honored to command this great warship in protection of our nation.”
Cmdr. Rogeness’ personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards) and Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal (five awards).
Cmdr. Rogeness will report for duty as Commander, Pacific Fleet (N2B) Deputy for battlespace awareness and special programs.
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Naval Today Staff , May 14, 2012
A time-honored change of command ceremony was held aboard the Los Angeles-class submarine USS Cheyenne (SSN 773) at the submarine piers at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, May 11. Cmdr. Gary Rogeness, commanding officer of Cheyenne was relieved by Cmdr. Noel Gonzalez. Guest speaker, Retired Vice Adm.
