Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Sigonella held a change of command ceremony at Naval Air Station Sigonella, June 29.

More than 200 guests and dignitaries celebrated the two-year tour of outgoing Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Parker, and welcomed onboard incoming Commanding Officer Capt. Dion English.

The ceremony was rich in naval heritage, with the sound of the ship's bell being struck to honor high-ranking dignitaries, and the ceremonial call of the boatswain's pipe representing the rendering of honors as the official party arrived.

Rear Adm. Rick Williamson, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, provided opening remarks.

"In order to meet the challenges we are faced with, it is imperative that our Navy fleet remains ready for sea. Ensuring the right supplies get to the right people on the right ship at the right location at the right time is the key to success," said Williamson.

"You've heard me say that the shore is operational, and Capt. Parker and his team exemplify that every day and in every interaction. They fight the logistics fight and are an integral part of the solution," said Williamson.

Rear Adm. Jonathan Yuen, commander, Naval Supply Systems Command and 47th Chief of Supply Corps, presided over the change of command.

"Chris creates legacies at home and in command. When Chris initially assumed command, he set out with three goals to specifically support the warfighter," said Yuen.

"First, to ensure we take care of our Sailors and our combined team of dedicated U.S. and foreign national employees and their families; secondly, to continue to build upon the culture and excellence supporting our forces; and thirdly, to enhance our partnerships across our fleet logistics center and customer organizations to foster trust, transparency, and operational excellence," said Yuen.

During his remarks Parker explained how commanding an overseas fleet logistics center has proved to be one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs of his career.

Parker thanked his teams from around the Europe and Africa area of operations including: Sigonella, Rota, Naples, Souda Bay and Djibouti.

After assuming command, English thanked Parker and discussed his commitment to the NAVSUP FLC Sigonella mission and its employees during his remarks.

English is the seventh commanding officer of NAVSUP FLC Sigonella.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella is one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP GLS, which provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics to a global navy. The command is made up of more than 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide, providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

For more NAVSUP Global Logistics Support, visit http://www.navsup.navy.mil/navsup/ourteam/navsupgls/news/ or http://www.facebook.com/navsupgls/.


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