Rear Adm. Bret C. "Pops" Batchelder took command of Navy Warfare Development Command in a brief ceremony, witnessed by NWDC's military personnel, Department of the Navy civilians, and contractors, Aug. 3.

Batchelder reported to NWDC following his command of Carrier Strike Group 8 and Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, recently returned from an 8-month deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve with operations in the Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea.

An integral part of the Navy's warfighting development system, NWDC develops and integrates innovative solutions to complex naval warfare challenges to enhance current and future warfighting capabilities.

"I am extraordinarily fortunate to join this team of professionals," Batchelder said. "I look forward to the contribution opportunities we will have to strengthen the Navy's warfighting acumen."

For more news from Navy Warfare Development Command, visit www.navy.mil/.