USS Louisiana Changes Command

USS Louisiana (SSBN 743) welcomed a new commanding officer for its Gold Crew Aug. 15.

Cmdr. Melvyn Naidas relieved Cmdr. Robert Peters during the ballistic missile submarine’s change-of-command ceremony at the Naval Undersea Museum.

During his command tour, which began in March 2012, Peters completed four strategic deterrent patrols with the Gold Crew while maintaining 100-percent readiness over half a year of sustained strategic operations. Gold Crew also earned the 2012 and 2013 Commander, Pacific Fleet Retention Excellence awards, the 2013 Chief of Naval Operations Afloat Safety Award, and the 2012 Deck Seamanship “D”, the 2013 Supply “E” and Engineering “E” in the Submarine Squadron 17 Battle Efficiency “E” award competitive categories.

“Every day we execute the strategic mission of deterrence, contributing to the defense of our nation and its constitution. In return for your performance, I will give you no less than 100 percent of my effort and dedication,” said Naidas. “This mission demands our respect, integrity, and perseverance. Together, we will accomplish not only the mission but many other great things.”

Louisiana is one of eight Ohio-class Trident ballistic missile submarines stationed at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, providing the survivable leg of the nation’s strategic deterrent forces.

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Press Release, August 17, 2014; Image: US Navy