Capt. Edgardo A. Moreno relieved Capt. Darren W. Nelson as commanding officer of amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17), during a change of command ceremony at BAE Systems in Norfolk, Jan. 25.

Guest speaker Rear Adm. Jeffrey W. Hughes, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 2, spoke about the importance of command saying, "Command is a privilege bestowed upon a select group of officers. It is also the most solemn duty these naval officers will ever undertake. It is a highly coveted position certainly well earned by these two officers we recognize here today."

Capt. Nelson served as the commanding officer of LPD 17 for 18 months. His next assignment will be to the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center.

"I've known for a while that the San Antonio-class ships are some of the most capable ships in the fleet," said Capt. Nelson. "After our last deployment, you all proved to the world how strong and versatile we really are."

Capt. Moreno became the 10th commanding officer in the ship's history. Prior to assuming command of LPD 17, Moreno served as the ship's executive officer.

"This crew of dedicated Sailors, chiefs, Marines and officers stand ready to continue their outstanding work as we prepare to bring the San Antonio out of the yards," said Capt. Moreno. "We will prioritize war fighting and people to best achieve our mission and accomplish our goals, while focusing on readiness and leadership at all levels. I am supremely confident in our future."

San Antonio is currently drydocked at BAE Systems conducting a scheduled maintenance availability period. San Antonio is the first ship named for the city in Texas, and the first amphibious transport dock ship in the San Antonio-class. Her motto is "Never Retreat, Never Surrender."

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