Los Angeles-Class Attack Submarine USS Dallas Welcomes New Commander

Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Dallas (SSN 700) held a change of command ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base New London’s chapel in Groton Feb. 23.

Cmdr. Jack Houdeshell relieved Cmdr. Rich Arnold during the time-honored ceremony.

“It’s been a real honor to serve on Dallas for these last two and a half years,” said Arnold. “It’s a great ship with a talented and dedicated crew. This is the best crew I have ever worked with. Their dedication to the nation, the ship and each other is inspiring. They have far exceeded all of my expectations.”

During Arnold’s tour as commanding officer aboard Dallas from August 2009 to February 2012, he improved every aspect of his ship, instilled a warrior’s mentality and improved the esprit de corps throughout his crew. During this time, Dallas conducted a six-month deployment to the Central Command area of responsibility returning to Groton in December 2011.

Arnold was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his leadership and achievements while in command.

“Commanding his ship with clear vision and enthusiastic leadership, Cmdr. Arnold completely transformed his officers and crew into a highly functional, mission-oriented team of warfighters whose performance culminated in a highly successful six-month deployment to the Central Command area of responsibility,” said Rear Adm. Rick Breckenridge, commander, Submarine Group 2.

Arnold also received praise for the submarine’s involvement with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group during Exercise Bold Alligator 2012.

“Your support of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group during Bold Alligator 2012 was exceptional,” said Vice Adm. John Richardson, commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic in a naval message praising Arnold for his achievements. “A major step forward for SSN participation in strike group certifications.”

Prior to reporting as commanding officer of Dallas, Houdeshell, a native of Iowa, served on the headquarters staff of U.S. Joint Forces Command in the Intelligence Directorate from June 2009 until May 2011.

Houdeshell discussed his excitement for the way ahead for the Los Angeles-attack submarine and its crew.

“Dallas is a great ship with a great crew. I look forward to continuing where Cmdr. Arnold has left off and taking her to sea in defense of our great country,” said Houdeshell.

Houdeshell reflected on his opportunity to command USS Dallas and what it takes to reach this pinnacle in someone’s naval career.

“It takes a long time to get to command. Getting the opportunity to lead a great ship like Dallas just makes the time well worth the effort,” said Houdeshell. “Dallas is a great ship with a great crew.”

Houdeshell also thanked the submarine’s namesake city for their continued support of the submarine.

“I look forward to continuing the good relations that the Dallas has maintained with its namesake, city of Dallas, Texas,” said Houdeshell.

Dallas is the first United States naval ship to bear the name of the city of Dallas, Texas. Dallas is a nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine of the Los Angeles-class built by Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation.

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Naval Today Staff , February 24, 2012; Image: navy