Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Alameda held a change of command ceremony March 5 when Cmdr. Robert Merton relieved Cmdr. Alvin "Al" Concepcion as commanding officer.

Guest speaker Capt. Thomas Bolich, Pacific Fleet Command's senior reserve intelligence officer, commended Concepcion's leadership approach and specifically noted feedback he received about the high level of care NOSC Alameda staff provided deployed Sailors, both outbound and returning.

"I think that is a statement of your character, and your leadership style," said Bolich. "Your high standard and leadership by example is something we expect of all of our Navy leaders."

After being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal by Rear Adm. Linnea J. Sommer-Weddington, director of Assured Command and Control Information Dominance, Concepcion reflected on what he described as both the most rewarding and difficult two years of his Navy career.

Further, he thanked his staff for enduring the amount of change that occurred during his tenure and praised the commitment and flexibility.

Concepcion's next assignment is at the District of Columbia with Navy Reserve Force.

Merton praised his initial interaction with NOSC Alameda staff and introduced his family to the command. He also thanked members of the official party for both their leadership and mentorship.

Merton was designated as a Naval Aviator in 2000, deployed aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Rainier (AOE 7) in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, and helped spearhead the establishment of Maritime Support Wing before assuming command of NOSC Alameda.

NOSC Alameda was established after World War II to support the larger number of personnel being released from active duty. In the wake of the attacks on 9/11, the center's activity increased due to the surge in mobilization of reservists in support of the global war on terrorism. Currently, NOSC Alameda hosts 33 units.

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, visit www.navy.mil/.