USS Pioneer Holds Change of Command

US Navy’s Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer (MCM 9) conducted a change of command ceremony November 5.

LCDR Bobby J. Rowden relieved LCDR Todd B. Penrod as commanding officer of USS Pioneer.

Capt. Mike Dowling, Commodore, Naval Mine Countermeasures Squadron Seven (MCMRON 7), presented LCDR Penrod with a Meritorious Service Medal for his service as commanding officer of USS Pioneer.

During LCDR Penrod’s time as commanding officer, he successfully completed Mine Warfare exercises, certifications, and a hull swap, highlighting the importance of the Mine Warfare (MIW) mission. USS Pioneer also received all Battle “E” awards during LCDR Penrod’s tour.

USS Pioneer (MCM 9) was commissioned 07 December 1992, and forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan, in 2014. Pioneer reports to Commander, Amphibious Force Seventh Fleet, Rear Admiral Hugh D. Wetherald who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

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Press release, Image: US Navy