Capt. Jeffrey Draeger relieved Capt. Monte Ulmer as Naval Support Activity Washington's commanding officer during a change of command ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard's Sail Loft April 5.

NSAW oversees several other sites within its area of responsibility including the Navy Research Laboratory, Naval Support Facility Suitland, the Naval Observatory, Naval Support Facility Arlington and Naval Support Facility Carderock, it is also responsible for the maintenance and manning of the Chief of Naval Operations' ceremonial barge.

During his speech, Ulmer thanked the Sailors and civilians who worked under his tenure as NSAW's commanding officer as well as the leaders and mentors who helped him passed the many challenges he faced.

"To my staff, I want to say thank you from my heart. My success has been because of your successes. Thank you for allowing me to lead you. said Ulmer.

"The success of a commander doesn't stop with the staff, of course. We all have bosses, right? Over the course of all of our careers, each of us probably has an anecdote or two about past bosses who could've have shown more support on an issue, given us more resources when we felt we needed them or had our backs when times were tough. I'm happy to say that I haven't had that problem here. My bosses have been terrific."

Ulmer also recognized that he is still saddened from the events that took place on September 16, 2013 at the Washington Navy Yard under his command, but he commended the new skipper to continue with the work that has already being done to increase the safety and security of the WNY employees and tenants.

"I would be remiss if I did not mention the shootings of September 16, 2013, the most surprising day of my tenure here," said Ulmer. "It was truly a surprising and tragic day. Just like many of you, I still feel the hurt and loss of that day. We have endeavored since that day to reduce the likelihood of future tragedies. I know Jeff will continue that mission and reduce any opportunity someone has to surprise us in the future."

Rear Adm. Yancy Lindsey presented Ulmer with the Legion of Merit medal for his leadership during his tenure as NSAW commanding officer from May 2013 to April 2016.

Draeger hails from Ohio and his past duty assignment was at the Office of the Secretary of Defense where he served on the staff of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs as principal legislative advisor and congressional liaison for the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology & Logistics).

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