Commanding Officer Relieved at Naval Air Facility El Centro

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Commander, Navy Region Southwest, Rear Adm. Dixon R. Smith, relieved Capt. Devon Jones, commanding officer of Naval Air Facility El Centro, Calif., July 1, due to loss of faith and confidence in his ability to command.

Cmdr. Erik Franzen, the executive officer at the installation, has temporarily assumed the duties as commanding officer until a decision can be made on a successor to the commanding officer's position. Capt. Jones will be assigned to Commander, Naval Air Forces until the outcome of this issue is reached.

The Navy expects its leaders to provide principled and highly ethical leadership, stressing discipline, accountability, and the importance of treating shipmates with dignity and respect. It is of paramount importance to the Navy that even the appearance of impropriety by leadership is unacceptable, and all personnel must conduct themselves in a manner beyond reproach.

The Navy is a diverse and agile force exemplifying the highest standards of service to our nation, at home and abroad, at sea and ashore. In keeping with these high standards, the Navy remains committed to maintaining these standards at all times.