USS California Hosts Change of Command Ceremony

Virginia-class attack submarine USS California (SSN 781), held a change of command ceremony at the Submarine Force Library and Museum in Groton Feb. 1.

Cmdr. Shawn Huey relieved Cmdr. Dana Nelson during the time-honored ceremony.

Capt. Mike Holland, commander, Submarine Squadron 4 served as guest speaker and praised Nelson for his accomplishments while in command of California, especially delivering the California to the Navy eight months ahead of schedule.

“Cmdr. Nelson displayed superb leadership skills and unparalleled drive as commanding officer of the USS California and led his crew through new construction, sea trials, commissioning, change of homeport, and an eleven-month Post Shakedown Availability,” said Holland, who added that the latest availability provides California with the most modern combat system of any previous Virginia-class submarines.

During Nelson’s speech he praised the crew of USS California for the many milestones achieved together.

“Leading this ship and her crew through new construction, initial sea trials, commissioning, and final delivery to the Navy has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my naval career,” said Nelson.

Nelson also received praise for his stellar performance during the recently completed Post Shakedown Availability.

“Your motivating, well balanced approach to crew preparation resulted in superb performance through new construction and initial at-sea operations, and has paved the way for those who follow,” said Vice Adm. Michael Connor, commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic in a naval message praising Nelson for his achievements.

Donna Willard, USS California’s ship sponsor attended the ceremony and bid farewell to the Nelson family while welcoming aboard the Huey family.

“It’s hard to say goodbye to Dana and Joan Nelson; I’ve gotten to know Dana over the last couple of years and I compare his leadership to that of a successful parent,” said Willard. “I look forward to getting to know Shawn and Tara. You can count on me for help and support.”

Willard also recognized the crew of USS California.

“I’m always here for this submarine and, most importantly the amazing crew,” said Willard. “While this submarine is nothing short of a technological wonder, it’s the men inside who bring it to life.”

During Nelson’s command tour, the Virginia-class submarine earned the 2011 Golden Anchor Award for exemplary retention. Nelson spoke highly of his crew who he served with for nearly three years.

“I am proud to have served with this amazing group of Americans and I look forward to reading about all their future successes,” said Nelson.

Nelson’s follow-on assignment is Commander, Navy Installations Command.

Huey enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1990 and was later accepted into the Nuclear Enlisted Commissioning Program. After graduating from Auburn University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in August 1995, he received his commission directly following at Officer Candidate School in December 1995. Huey reflected on his career progression in the U.S. Navy to command a Virginia-class submarine.

“I am honored to relieve as commanding officer of this fine submarine,” said Huey. “Cmdr. Nelson and the crew have provided the Navy with the most technologically advanced submarine in the fleet. I look forward to leading the crew in on its first deployment.”

Huey’s previous assignment before assuming command of the eighth Virginia-class submarine commissioned was Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic.

USS California was commissioned Oct. 29, 2011 at Naval Station Norfolk. Nelson was the California’s first commanding officer since her commissioning.

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Naval Today Staff, February 4, 2013; Image: US Navy