Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Marianas held a change of command ceremony, Aug. 28, in the gymnasium of the former Cmdr. William C. McCool Elementary/Middle School on board Naval Base Guam.

During this time-honored naval tradition, command authority was transferred from Capt. Glenn A. Shepard, Civil Engineer Corps, to Capt. Stephanie M. Jones, CEC.

Amid friends, family and colleagues, Shephard acknowledged more than 400 military and civilian professionals of NAVFAC Marianas for extraordinary achievements over the past two years.

"The men and women of NAVFAC Marianas deserve pause in celebration for enabling our supported commanders' mission success," said Shephard. "They magnificently executed the program of record at the fastest pace; put construction work in place. They relentlessly pursued excellence against unique cultural and natural resource requirements, improved utility and facility conditions and configurations, and brought fidelity and auditability to asset and financial control programs."

The captain was presented the Legion of Merit award for exceptional meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service, which directly contributed to the operational readiness of U.S. Pacific Fleet and Navy shore activities throughout the Mariana Islands.

"NAVFAC Marianas is a tremendous organization which continues to expertly execute important and difficult work for [Joint region Marianas]," said NAVFAC Pacific Commander Rear Adm. Bret Muilenburg, ceremonial guest speaker. "I am very thankful to be able to serve alongside such professionals and I thank all of you for your unwavering dedication to the defense of our nation and our way of life."

Muilenburg further recognized Shephard for his countless accomplishments then extended a warm welcome to Jones.

"There's an old saying, 'Be grateful for the doors of opportunity and for the friends who oiled the hinges,'" said Jones. "I am grateful for this opportunity and it never would have been possible had I not received encouragement and support throughout my career."

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