A new commanding officer took charge of Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768) during a change of command ceremony held aboard the submarine in its homeport of Naval Submarine Base, New London, Aug. 5.

Cmdr. Matthew Fanning relieved Cmdr. Thomas Aydt as commanding officer.

Aydt credited the entire Groton, Connecticut submarine community with making Hartford a ready national asset from Regional Support Group, Groton, to Naval Submarine Support Center, New London, to Naval Submarine School, to Naval Submarine Squadrons 4 and 12.

Aydt praised Hartford's Family Readiness Group and command ombudsmen for the support they provided to the family members of Hartford's crew.

"To the crew of the Hartford, it has been a rare privilege to serve with you," said Aydt. "Seeing firsthand your dedication to the ship and the Navy, the effort, and quality you put in every day is remarkable."

Hartford's new commanding officer praised Aydt during his speech.

"Cmdr. Aydt, congratulations on a job well done and I thank you for turning over a crew of such professional Sailors," said Fanning. "I'm honored to have the opportunity to build upon the tremendous work you have done."

After thanking Aydt, Fanning told the crew the ceremony was ultimately about them.

"This ceremony is about you -- you as individuals, you as the crew -- and about your success as the lifeblood of the Hartford," said Fanning.

Aydt expects Hartford and her crew to continue accomplishing great things.

"The story of the Hartford begins a new chapter today and I think it will be the best one yet," said Aydt. "I have known Cmdr. Fanning for a while and I can't think of anyone that I would rather see leading Hartford into the future."

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