The Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS West Virginia (SSBN 736) (Blue) held a change of command at the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay chapel, Sept. 18.

Capt. Joe Coleman was relieved by Cmdr. Jared Wyrick as commanding officer of the West Virginia Blue crew.

Retired Capt. Steven Gillespie was the guest speaker at the ceremony and stressed how vital West Virginia's mission is to the continued safety of the United States.

"In terms of importance, our nuclear deterrent is not only the submarine force's and the Navy's most important mission, it is the Department of Defense's most important mission," said Gillespie. "Since its conception, our strategic deterrent has fostered world peace by preventing major power conflict, and no other element of our strategic deterrent has contributed more than this little southeastern corner of Georgia and the SSBNs like West Virginia."

Coleman, a Pittsburgh native, spoke of his crew's unparalleled professionalism and dedication to their mission.

"The warriors of West Virginia know that what they do is absolutely necessary and, most importantly, that what they do makes the world safer," said Coleman. "You are professionals. You are warriors. You are national treasures and it was the privilege of my life to lead you for a time."

Wyrick, a Little Rock, Arkansas native, was previously assigned as a defense fellow for U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes of Virginia. His most recent operational assignment was aboard USS Alabama (SSBN 731) (Blue) where he served as the executive officer.

Wyrick relayed his excitement in becoming the commanding officer of West Virginia Blue.

"I believe in the submarine force. I believe in the importance of the strategic mission, and I believe that what you guys do each and every day is the reason we are the number one priority in the department of defense," said Wyrick. "I am excited to join you guys as a proud member of West Virginia."

Coleman leaves West Virginia to join the staff of the chief of naval operations in Washington D.C.

West Virginia was commissioned in 1990 and is the third U.S. Navy ship to be named for the state of West Virginia.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 10, visit http://www.navy.mil/.