Capt. Scott Switzer relieved Capt. Brian Fort as commodore of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 during a change of command ceremony held aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74), May 26.

"The one promise I made when I took command of the squadron in January of 2015 was that I would lead the squadron with the same passion as the historic commodores who came before me," Fort said. "I have tried to live by that promise every day."

Before assuming command of DESRON 26, Fort was the DESRON's deputy commodore for 18 months. He will now report to Commander, Naval Surface Forces Atlantic.

"I was fortunate to command a Navy destroyer, command ashore, command a squadron, be called captain and commodore, and represent the United States of America at home and abroad," Fort said. "I have served with your sons and daughters, husbands and wives, moms and dads, brothers and sisters, and friends -- the courageous men and women of the United States Navy."

Prior to becoming DESRON 26's deputy commodore seven months ago, Switzer was the reactor officer on aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).

"DESRON 26 is clearly the most impressive and accomplished team of ships in the fleet on either coast," Switzer said. "I'm excited and humbled by the opportunity to lead this group."

Destroyer Squadron 26 is comprised of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Stout (DDG 55), USS McFaul (DDG 74), USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), USS Mason (DDG 87), and USS Nitze (DDG 94).

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