Capt. Warren E. Cupps relieved Capt. Nick Sarap as commander, Destroyer Squadron 1, during a change of command ceremony aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), Oct. 25.

Rear Adm. John Fuller, commander, Carrier Strike Group 1, presided over the change of command ceremony.

Fuller said Sarap showed diligence and professionalism at all times.

"His persistence and direct personal oversight were exactly what we needed," said Fuller.

Before handing over command, Sarap thanked his Sailors for their dedication and performance, and gave one last word of advice.

"Allow yourself to make mistakes, because if you don't, you won't learn from them," said Sarap."The day you don't get back up is the day you're finished. So keep moving."

Having served as Sarap's deputy, Cupps assumed all duties and responsibilities once his official orders were read.

"Your leadership at the squadron was evident not only in the performance of our staff, but in the performance of our ships," Cupps told Sarap. "This team is a high- performing team -- intelligent, motivated and dedicated -- and I look forward to serving as your sea combat commander."

Destroyer Squadron 1 is responsible for planning, coordinating and executing all combat operations at sea, including surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, maritime interception operations, and mine warfare.

The squadron is also tasked with ensuring ships maintain the highest level of operational readiness. Ships currently under the squadron include Dewey, USS Sterett (DDG 104), USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and USS O'Kane (DDG 77).

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