USA: Change of Command Ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor

Commander, Submarine Group 9 conducted a change of command ceremony Dec. 12 at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor.

Rear Adm. Robert Hennegan turned over command of Submarine Group 9 to Rear Adm. Dietrich H. Kuhlmann III at Deterrent Park.

 “The complexity of our missions here in Bangor continues to increase every year, and you have always risen to the challenge,” said Hennegan, who assumed command of Submarine Group 9 in October 2010. “You have achieved a superb record of excellence – and your commitment is unmatched. You will continue to be a vital part of the peace our country enjoys.”

A 1980 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Hennegan oversaw certification and conduct of 35 strategic deterrent patrols by Trident ballistic missile submarines during his two years in command, as well as training and certification of crews for guided-missile submarines USS Ohio (SSGN 726) and USS Michigan (SSGN 727) in support of 22 forward-deployed mission periods.

Hennegan’s command tenure also witnessed the return of USS Nevada (SSBN 733) to strategic service after a two-year refueling overhaul, as well as the recent completion of a refueling overhaul by USS Pennsylvania (SSBN 735).

 “When I review the stellar accomplishments of Rear Admiral Bob Hennegan and his people over the last two years, I am extremely proud of what I have seen,” said Rear Adm. Frank Caldwell Jr., commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, the ceremony’s guest speaker. “Thanks to you and your people, our message to our potential adversaries is that the U.S. Submarine Force is out there at sea. We are ready today, and we are innovating to stay ahead of all challenges.”

Caldwell presented the Legion of Merit to Hennegan for his exemplary command of Submarine Group 9, after which Hennegan read his orders to the assembled guests and service members. Once Kuhlmann read his orders, Caldwell received Kuhlmann’s report of relief, marking the official change of command.

Kuhlmann comes to Submarine Group 9 from the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial Management and Comptroller), where he served as director of the operations division for the Fiscal Management Division. Previously, Kuhlmann served two tours in Bangor as commanding officer of Michigan, both before and after her conversion to a guided-missile submarine.

 “Your reputation as warriors here in Bangor is well known across the entire Submarine Force and the Navy,” Kuhlmann said. “Our platforms are marvels of science and engineering, but in the end, it has always been about having the best-trained and motivated people. As we work together to adjust our naval capabilities to the new fiscal realities, I am confident our Sailors will continue to make a difference. I am honored to have this opportunity to fight at your side.”

Hennegan’s next assignment will be as commander of Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command at Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego.

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Press Release, December 14, 2012