US Navy’s Guam submarine squadron 15 changes command

Submarine Squadron 15 held a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Naval Base Guam on Polaris Point, June 20.

Capt. David Schappert relieved Capt. Jeffrey Grimes as commander, Submarine Squadron (COMSUBRON) 15.

Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC) Rear Adm. Frederick Roegge was the guest speaker for the ceremony and discussed the importance of submarine forces in Guam.

“Guam is the tip of the spear,” said Rear Adm. Frederick Roegge Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “The challenges you face are unique and demanding, and the missions you accomplish are some of the most vital to our country. The success of the team depends on the strong leadership at the helm and the commitment of the team. Jeff, you and your team can be justifiably proud of all that has been accomplished during your time in command.”

Roegge presented Grimes with a Legion of Merit for his impressive leadership of the Navy’s only forward-deployed submarine squadron.

Grimes has led SUBRON 15 for approximately two years, during which Guam welcomed its fourth submarine, USS Topeka (SSN 754), and its second submarine tender, USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Under Grimes’ command, SUBRON 15 oversaw and supported submarines operating forward within the 7th Fleet area of operations.

Schappert praised Grimes for the squadron’s success and thanked him for turning over a great command.

SUBRON 15 is located at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam in Santa Rita, Guam, and consists of four Los Angeles-class attack submarines. The squadron staff is responsible for providing training, material and personnel readiness support to these commands.

Also based out of Naval Base Guam are submarine tenders USS Frank Cable (AS 40) and USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). The submarines and tenders are maintained as part of the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed submarine force and are readily capable of meeting global operational requirements.