U.S. Fleet Forces Celebrates Change of Command

NNS090724-31. U.S. Fleet Forces Celebrates Change of Command
July 24, 2009

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Amie Gonzales, Navy Public Affairs Support Element-East

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- USS Harry S Truman (CVN 75) hosted a change of command ceremony for U.S. Fleet Forces Command July 24.

During the ceremony Adm. John C. Harvey Jr., relieved Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert as commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

Guest speaker, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead said Sailors, their families and Navy civilians are among the most important things at Fleet Forces Command.

"This change of command is great for our Sailors who are with us today and who are serving around the world and for their families because these are the types of leaders that we need in our Navy," said Roughead.

Greenert assumed command of U.S. Fleet Forces Command in October 2007. He led the command with a strategic focus on the new maritime strategy, with an emphasis on individual augmentee programs and policies. Greenert's next assignment will be as the vice chief of naval operations.

"Our motto is 'ready fleet, global reach,' and we have to be global," said Greenert. "Our maritime strategy says maritime forces will be more dispersed; it says junior Sailors will interact more with our international partners. So we have to build the training and support to prepare these future Sailors to do exactly that and to be effective at that."

Greenert also remarked on the need to continue to improve the individual augmentee program, to ensure Sailors and their families are given the attention and treatment they need when they leave and return home.

"It was my privilege meeting these Sailors here and abroad, and that's really been the best part of the tour," said Greenert.

Roughead also recognized Greenert's spouse, Darleen, for her time and dedication put toward taking care of Navy families and presented her with the Department of the Navy Superior Public Service Award.

After reading his orders, Harvey remarked on all those who had a hand in getting him to where he is today, including officers, enlisted and civilians, along with his wife and two children.

"Admiral Roughead, it means a great deal to me to have you preside over today's ceremony," said Harvey. "I wish to thank you for placing your confidence in me and giving me this extraordinary opportunity to continue to serve our Navy and our nation."

As Harvey addressed the men and women of Fleet Forces Command, he gave them primary reference points from which to take their bearings. First, put mission accomplishment at the top. Second, maintain a relentless focus on the fundamentals of the profession by being brilliant at the basics. Third, establish the closest possible partnership with their Pacific Fleet, Marine Forces Command and Joint Forces Command counterparts.

"And finally, never forget that when all is said and done, the power of our Navy is in our people, not our platforms," said Harvey. "It is a total-force team here at Fleet Forces that fulfills the promise and the purpose of our Navy."

Harvey will be blogging on the U.S. Fleet Forces Command blog, at http://fleetforces.dodlive.mil. For more information visit the Fleet Forces Command Website at www.cffc.navy.mil.

For more news from Fleet Forces Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/clf.