Rear Adm. John A. Okon relieved Rear Adm. Timothy C. Gallaudet as commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command (CNMOC) during a July 27 ceremony held at Stennis Space Center.

Okon, who also assumed the role and responsibilities of Oceanographer and Navigator of the Navy, graduated from the State University of New York Maritime College at Fort Schuyler in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and Oceanography. He also holds master's degrees in meteorology and physical oceanography from the Naval Post Graduate School as well as a master's degree in national security studies from the Naval War College.

Okon most recently served as the executive assistant to the Deputy of Chief of Naval Operations of Information Warfare and Director of Naval Intelligence. His career includes command of the Naval Oceanography Antisubmarine Warfare Center in Yokosuka, Japan and the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center in Monterey, Ca. Further assignments include serving as the optimum track ship router at the Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Center; operations officer and executive assistant to the deputy director for regional operations, Joint Staff; and senior oceanography assignment and placement officer, Navy Personnel Command.

"To the men and women of Naval Oceanography, I am proud and humbled to be back in the family as your commander," said Okon. "We are...you are the world's most dedicated operational and innovative team of diverse professionals with an undeniable war fighting spirit. Every day the world becomes increasingly more competitive, despite the changing environment, the Fleet's role in protecting American ideals and principles remains the same. It is vital that we maintain our advantage. Now, more than any time in the history of our nation, it is crucial that U.S. Naval Oceanography adapts to and gets ahead of the changing environment."

Gallaudet will retire from the Navy on Aug. 31 after serving 28 years including his tenure of three years as commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command as well as two years serving as Oceanographer and Navigator of the Navy.

As commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, Okon directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally-distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary.

As Oceanographer of the Navy, Okon is the Chief of Naval Operations' resource, requirements and policy advisor for Naval Oceanography. He also serves as the Navy's senior policy advisor on issues relating to national ocean policy and governance and interagency ocean activities.

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