Capt. Doug Stuffle relieved Capt. Michael L. Elliott as Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 1 during a change of command ceremony aboard the guided missile frigate USS McClusky (FFG 41), Feb. 21.
Elliott, who assumed command of DESRON 1 Oct. 12, 2012, guided the squadron through a successful Western Pacific (WESTPAC) and Arabian Gulf deployment with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group.
During the deployment, the strike group supported coalition forces in Afghanistan as part of the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOR) and participated in Exercise Malabar 2012 with the Indian navy in the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR.
“This day is for the Sailors, this day is for families, and I consider them one in the same,” said Elliott as he addressed the DESRON 1 staff. “I am very appreciative for everything that you have done.”
Elliott also spoke in great detail about his mother and father and their unconditional support of his naval career over the years.
“Thank you mom and dad for being alongside me and supporting me throughout this journey,” said Elliott.
Retired Rear Adm. Lothrop S. Little, who served as DESRON 1 commander from March 1, 2004 to Jan. 10, 2006, was the guest speaker for the ceremony.
Elliott will soon travel to Great Lakes, Ill., to assume command of Naval Operations Support Center Chicago as his next assignment.
A native of Orofino, Idaho, Stuffle is “fleeting up” to command of DESRON 1 following a successful tour as deputy commodore.
“I am very humbled by the number of people who showed up today,” said Stuffle after taking command. “Commodore Little, thank you again not only for speaking but for your friendship and guidance throughout my career. I am standing here today because of your advice and friendship.”
DESRON 1 is part of Carrier Strike Group One and will deploy with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group later this year.
[mappress] Press Release, February 24, 2014, 2014; Image: Wikimedia