Cmdr. Andrew B. Koy relieved Cmdr. Sean P. Lewis as commander of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) during a change of command ceremony at Naval Station San Diego Friday, Oct. 18.
The ceremony was held alongside the Sterett and was attended by many distinguished visitors, guests and crew.

Lewis served as Commander of Sterett since August 2018 and oversaw the execution of a successful dry docking, maintenance phase, un-docking and compressed basic phase execution of 22 mission areas.
Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, commander Naval Surface Force Atlantic, served as the ceremony's guest speaker.

"Cmdr. Lewis, like all successful commanding officers, lives by the maxim: you succeed by enabling the success of your subordinates," said Kitchener. "Cmdr. Koy, you have big shoes to fill, but I know you'll take this team to even greater heights because that's what we do. Be battle minded, be demanding and most importantly be the commanding officer and leader these Sailors rightfully deserve."

Capt. Todd E. Whalen, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 9, presented Lewis with the Meritorious Service Medal, and praised him for his exceptional leadership and building the tactical and technical proficiency of his crew. Lewis will report to the Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff in Washington, D. C.

Koy is a native of Bellville, Texas and a 2001 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. He earned his master's degree in information systems and operations from Naval Post Graduate School in 2002. He completed sea tours aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97), USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), USS Anzio (CG 68), and the USS Russell (DDG 59). During his most recent tour, he served as Executive Officer aboard USS Sterett (DDG 104) and is poised to see her through the completion of her training phase and a deployment.

"I am humbled to be standing here today, to rejoin this mighty crew and impressive ship. Together, we will ensure that we are well trained and combat ready when our time is called to steam over the horizon," said Koy.

USS Sterett is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 9 and is part of the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group.