In a traditional change of command ceremony, Cmdr. Mark Harris relieved Cmdr. Nathan York as commanding officer of Coastal Riverine Squadron Four (CRS) 4 at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Dec. 11.

Capt. Michael Sparks, commander, Coastal Riverine Group Two (CRG) 2 served as guest speaker during the ceremony and discussed the importance of the missions in which the Coastal Riverine Force is employed and the dedication of its Sailors.

During York's time as commanding officer, CRS-4 trained, certified and deployed Coastal Riverine companies executing missions in Central Command, Southern Command, European Command, Pacific Command and Africa Command providing combatant commanders the anti-terrorism and force protection forces required to protect high value units operating within their areas of responsibility.

"Remember, you set the standard, together we led the Coastal Riverine Force through many milestones, including the first coastal command boat transit through the Strait of Hormuz and the first deployment with detachments in every geographic combatant command," said York, who hails from Standish, Maine.

Under York's leadership, CRS-4 became the first Coastal Riverine Squadron to simultaneously deploy to every geographic combatant command.

"These accomplishments can only be attributed to your professionalism. Continue to support your shipmates as you lead this force to new heights," said York, who will depart CRS-4 for Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.

Harris, who hails from Burke, Virginia, thanked York as he assumed command and praised him for his sound leadership.

"Thank you Cmdr. York for the outstanding leadership you have provided this squadron. You have been a superb mentor, counselor, friend, boss and most importantly, a superb commanding officer," said Harris. "To the women and men of Coastal Riverine Squadron 4, serving our great nation alongside you for the past 18 months has been the highlight of my career. The opportunity to serve with you again as commanding officer is the highest honor our Navy could bestow on me."

The Coastal Riverine Force (CRF) operates in harbors, rivers, bays across the littorals and ashore. The primary mission of CRF is to conduct maritime security operations across all phases of military operations by defending high value assets, critical maritime infrastructure, ports and harbors both inland and on coastal waterways against enemies and when commanded conduct offensive combat operations.

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