Capt. Dennis L. Farrell relieved Capt. Dennis Velez as commanding officer of the guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56) during a change of command ceremony held here Dec. 19. Guest speaker Rear Adm. Jesse A. Wilson Jr., commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, praised the San Jacinto crew and their achievements. "I could not be more proud of what you and your team have accomplished together," said Wilson. "Your invaluable support to Carrier Strike Group Ten (CSG 10) and your unyielding warfighting spirit. Your 'Victory is Certain' motto have served us well." Velez assumed command in February 2016, and successfully completed a seven-month deployment in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation, in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Oaken Steel. During his remarks, Velez thanked his crew for a successful tour. "United States Navy Sailors...my Sailors, my 'Gunslingers,' that's what I will always remember about my command tour," said Velez. "I will never forget each and every one of you, your honor, your courage, and your commitment, and I very much look forward to hearing of your many and continued successes." Velez previously served in the Joint Staff Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate as Chief, North East Asia Division and Assistant Director for Political-Military Affairs, Asia. He is a native of Adjuntas, Puerto Rico and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. His next assignment will be the Deputy Director, Military Personnel Plans and Policy (N13) at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. The new commanding officer, Farrell previously served as the Deputy Director of Investment and Development Division at the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial Management and Comptroller (ASN (FM&C))) office. He is a native of Boca Raton, Fla., and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Systems Engineering. "I am honored to take command of the mighty San Jacinto," said Farrell. "San Jacinto Sailors are the best our nation has to offer, whom I am humbled to serve with." Named for the battle of the same name that took place near Houston and led to Texas gaining independence from Mexico, CG 56 is attached to CSG 10 and a part of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group. Follow San Jacinto on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/USSSanJacinto .