Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA) held a change of command ceremony April 16 at Naval Support Activity Naples.

During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Yancy Lindsey relieved Rear Adm. Rick Williamson as the region commander.

“My time here in Naples has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my Navy career,” said Williamson. “The reason for that is the professionals I have had the honor and privilege to serve with over the past three years.”

As commander of EURAFSWA since March 2016, Williamson implemented many changes to the operational capabilities of the region, oversaw the construction of two new installations – Naval Support Facility (NSF) Deveselu, Romania, and NSF Redzikowo, Poland – and improved communication and coordination between the region, its installations and fleet and combatant commanders.

“We are in a very unique position,” said Williamson. “We are the people who provide the fleet with support to enable them to go to sea and win. We are the people who take care of their families when they go forward in defense of our national interests. We are the people who are called on to refuel, rearm, resupply, repair and revive the fleet.”

The guest speaker for the ceremony was Adm. James G. Foggo, Commander, Naval Forces Europe/Naval Forces Africa, who talked about the importance of the support provided by Navy Region EURAFSWA under Williamson’s command.

“Thanks to the leadership and stewardship of Rear Admiral Williamson, the fighting forces of the U.S. Navy in Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia are armed, based, and fueled on time, and all the time 24/7/365,” said Foggo. “In his 37 months at the helm, he led a team of more than 5,000 U.S. and international civilians, contractors and Sailors at nine installations across three continents surrounded by three oceans.”

Lindsey is taking over command of Navy Region EURAFSWA after serving as Commander, Navy Region Southwest from September 2016 to March 2019. He was commissioned through Aviation Officer Candidate School in October 1986 and was designated as a Naval Aviator in December 1987. Lindsey is a native of Phoenix and graduated from the University of California, Berkeley.

“Navy Region EURAFSWA, it’s an honor and privilege to serve with you,” said Lindsey. “In my short time onboard you’ve impressed me with your tireless commitment and dedication. I look forward to joining your amazing, high performing team.”

Navy Region EURAFSWA oversees nine installations in seven countries across three continents, enabling U.S., allied and partner nation forces to be where and when they are needed to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

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