Cmdr. Thomas E. Myers relieved Capt. Francis X. Castellano as commanding officer of guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) at a change of command ceremony held Nov. 18.

Castellano assumed command of Anzio Sept. 10, 2015. Upon completing various warfare certifications on the heels of a short-notice deployment, he led the cruiser through an eight-month combat deployment in the 5th and 6th fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

As an Anzio plankowner, Castellano has had the unique experience of being able to see Anzio through her first and last deployment prior to undergoing the Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) period for cruiser modernization.

"I have witnessed the crew truly embody the Anzio 'Stand and Fight' spirit, despite the short-notice deployment," said Castellano. "The crew took on the challenge and demonstrated technical and tactical acumen, resulting in our success."

Castellano's next assignment is as commanding officer, Center for Surface Combat Systems, based out of Dahlgren, Virginia.

Myers, who most recently commanded guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51), has been assured preparations made now will ensure Anzio is successfully upgraded in the realm of hull, mechanical, electrical, and combat systems for continued service to the fleet.

"It is a great honor to assume command of this warship; I can see how committed the crew is to Anzio, and I look forward to leading these Sailors through the months up to SLEP," said Myers.

Anzio is part of Carrier Strike Group 8, which is composed of aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Carrier Air Wing 7, USS Normandy (CG 60), and Destroyer Squadron 28 to include Arleigh Burke, USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), USS Gravely (DDG 107), and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109).

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, visit http://www.navy.mil/.