The crew of the guided-missile destroyer USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110) held a change-of-command ceremony on board Naval Base San Diego, June 11.

During the ceremony, Cmdr. Walter Mainor relieved Cmdr. Chanden Langhofer as commanding officer.

"The opportunity to command at sea has been the highlight of my career," said Langhofer. "I'm truly honored and privileged to have served so closely with the best Sailors in the Navy."

Langhofer assumed command of William P. Lawrence Dec. 17, 2013, and led the ship through an extensive but highly successful basic phase of training and material inspection.

"I'm really proud of all we've accomplished," said Laughofer. "Although I'm sad to be leaving the ship, I know that the command is ready to do even greater things under the leadership of Cmdr. Mainor."

Mainor reported to William P. Lawrence in October 2013, and previously served as executive officer as part of the fleet-up program. The program features an 18-month executive officer tour followed by a commanding officer tour aboard the same ship. Cmdr. Mainor has also served as commanding officer of the mine countermeasures ship USS Patriot (MCM 7).

Mainor said the fleet-up program has allowed him to become familiar with the crew and the ship before assuming command of William P. Lawrence.

"I'm excited and humbled to take command of a ship named after such an incredible man and naval officer" said Mainor. "The crew is truly remarkable. It's amazing to watch the Sailors of William P. Lawrence come together and accomplish every task. I look forward to all of our future operations in preparation for deployment."

Cmdr. Andrew Burkett recently assumed the duties as the ship's executive officer.

William P. Lawrence is conducting integrated training with the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and Carrier Strike Group 3 in preparation for a future deployment.

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