Cmdr. Michael C. Grubb relieved Cmdr. Patrick Clark as commanding officer of Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750) during a change of command ceremony, Nov. 10, at Naval Station Norfolk.

Capt. Thomas R. Buchanan, commander, Submarine Squadron (CSS) 20 was the featured speaker.

"It is always tough to be a commanding officer when your commodore is a former CO, but Clark you have done an admirable job holding your own and keeping Newport News' reputation strong," said Buchanan. "COs weather the seas of command as they navigate their ships and crews through unfathomable operational crises, and significant personnel challenges to provide submarines ready for tasking and ready to take the fight to our challengers. No other captain or crew has carried out this tremendous responsibility more effectively than Commander Clark and the crew of Newport News."

Buchanan finished his remarks with praise for his former shipmate.

"Commander Clark and his team have flawlessly executed high-profile missions for the Department of Defense and the submarine force," he added. "I am grateful for your outstanding performance. I know you give most of the thanks and credit to others, but you have indeed worn command well; you have much to be proud of."

Capt. Jasper C. Hartsfield, CSS 6, presented Clark with his fourth Meritorious Service Medal, citing him for his motivational and inspiring leadership, and commending the performance of Newport News' meticulously-trained crew which accomplished all deployment certification milestones with first-time success. This enabled the ship to accomplish numerous vital missions recognized by fleet and operational commanders, and contributed to national security objectives.

After reviving his award, Clark addressed the audience.

"This day is really to thank those who have helped me arrive at this moment, and to acknowledge the accomplishments of the remarkable crew that I had the privilege and honor of commanding," said Clark. "To my commodores, thank you for your mentorship and support. You all offered me valuable advice and took the time to listen patiently to my concerns. To my crew, thank you for the heart you put into the job. Watching you persevere and rise to every challenge was awe inspiring. The sky is limit for you, and I feel extremely blessed to have been charged with leading such a remarkable and resilient team."

Clark recognized his family and friends who traveled to Norfolk to attend the ceremony, and offered a special mention to his wife.

"Twenty years ago when we were attempting to map out our future, we wouldn't have thought in a million years that our journey would cross this path," he said. "At each juncture, you have always supported my decisions and have stressed to me to have no regrets. We made it, and you are the biggest reason I am standing here today. Thank you, and I love you!"

"It truly has been an honor to be able to called your captain -- something I will cherish for the rest of my life," Clark continued. "Please give Commander Grubb the same support and dedication you gave me. You could not have asked for a better leader to take the ship to new heights. You all are bound for greatness."

As Clark and Grubb exchanged salutes, one relinquishing authority and the other gaining authority of Newport News, Hartsfield gave each a final salute acknowledging the transfer of responsibility.

After Grubb assumed command of Newport News, he assured Clark the high standards he set would remain.

"For Commander Clark, thank you for a terrific turnover over the past few weeks, and hearty congratulations for an outstanding command tour," he said. "I will do my utmost to maintain a steady hand on the tiller and build upon your excellent efforts in developing this amazing Newport News team."

Newport News is the third U.S. Navy ship to be named after the city of Newport News, Virginia. The contract to build her was awarded to Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, April 19, 1982, and her keel was laid down March 3, 1984.

She was launched March 15, 1986, sponsored by Rosemary D. Trible, and commissioned June 3, 1989. The 361-foot ship has a crew complement of 13 officers and 121 enlisted Sailors.

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