By Petty Officer 1st Class Andrea Perez, Commander, Submarine Group 9 Public Affairs
SILVERDALE, Wash. - The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Jacksonville (SSN 699) held a change of command, June 25.
Cmdr. James “Andy” Wiest relieved Cmdr. David Vehon, from Apache Junction, Arizona, to assume the duties and responsibilities as Jacksonville’s commanding officer.
Vehon took command of Jacksonville shortly after the inactivation process began and Wiest will lead the crew through final decommissioning.
During his time as commanding officer, Vehon safely guided Jacksonville through an extended inactivation period and returned an entire crew of Sailors to the active fleet, which immeasurably and positively impacted overall fleet readiness.
“I am most honored and humbled to have been the commanding officer onboard Jacksonville,” said Vehon. “Leading the amazing warriors of this mighty warship has been the greatest privilege of my military career and I know that nothing in the future will ever compare.”
Capt. Richard Massie, commodore, Submarine Squadron 19, had much to say about Jacksonville’s accomplishments and unique firsts and lasts under Vehon’s command.
“Your team blazed a new trail that others will soon follow,” said Massie. “From qualifications to administration to watch standing practices, there was virtually no aspect of running a ship that your team did not have to reinvent. Very well done!”
Jacksonville completed their last deployment Aug. 10, 2017 and arrived at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton to commence the inactivation and decommissioning process, Dec. 12, 2017, after completing 36 years of service.
Jacksonville is the only vessel of the U.S. Navy to be named for Jacksonville, Florida.
For more news about USS Jacksonville and other Commander, Submarine Group 9 units, visit www.facebook.com/SubGru9 or www.navy.mil/local/csg9/.