The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) held a change of command ceremony on the flight deck of the ship April 24.
Capt. Jeffrey A. Ward relieved Capt. Murray J. Tynch at the ceremony.
Since assuming command of Bonhomme Richard in Oct. 2013, Tynch led the crew through two deployments in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility, completing several multinational training exercises and ensuring the Navy maintained an amphibious presence in 7th Fleet. Under Tynch’s command, Bonhomme Richard was the 2014 recipient of the Navy’s Battle Efficiency Award.
During the ceremony, Tynch, who will continue his naval service at the office of the Chief of Naval Operations, was presented with the Legion of Merit for his performance as commanding officer from Oct. 2013 to April 2015.
After orders were read and salutes were rendered, Capt. Ward officially assumed the title of commanding officer.
Ward served as Bonhomme Richard’s executive officer from Oct. 2013 to April 2015.
Bonhomme Richard, the lead ship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, is currently in port making preparations for her next deployment in U.S. 7th Fleet.
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Image: US Navy