NSAWC Holds Change of Command Ceremony

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Shimana, Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center Public Affairs

April 25, 2010 - FALLON, Nev. (NNS) -- Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (NSAWC) held a change of command ceremony on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon, Nev., April 23.

Rear Adm. John "Fozzie" Miller relieved Rear Adm. Mark "MRT" Fox as commander of NSAWC.

Military and civilian dignitaries, NSAWC personnel, family and friends were present to bid farewell to Fox and welcome Miller and his family to NAS Fallon and the Fallon community. Miller is the ninth two-star admiral to command NSAWC since its inception in 1996.

The event's guest speaker was Vice Adm. Thomas J. Kilcline Jr., commander, Naval Air Forces.

"Both of these men are amazing officers and highly regarded throughout naval aviation, and I feel very strongly that their leadership is just what we need." said Kilcline. "Mark has made significant contributions, and under Fozzie's watchful eye the training provided here will ensure that naval aviation remains the premier combat ready air force in the world."

Kilcline touched on several of Fox's accomplishments while serving as NSAWC commander, of particular note was Fox's contribution to current combat operations.

"Under his strong leadership, NSAWC has met the reality of strike warfare with extraordinary accomplishments." said Kilcline. "He has assured the realistic state of the art training opportunities continue to be provided to our deploying air wings."

Following his speech, Kilcline presented Fox the Legion of Merit Award for his exceptional service as NSAWC commander.

During his speech, Fox touched on many issues facing today's Navy, as well as the importance of being partners within the communities in which we live.

"Here in Fallon, I think we've got it right," said Fox. "The relationship between the military and the local community is as strong as any place that I can think of and is a model for the rest of the nation to emulate."

Following his remarks, Fox was joined on stage by retired Adm. Timothy Keating, who presented the Adm. Timothy J. Keating Leadership Award to Cmdr. Dan Cheever, for exhibiting uncompromising integrity, sustained professional excellence and exemplary leadership during his tour at NSAWC.

Fox has been nominated for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Central Command and commander, 5th Fleet, in Bahrain.

NSAWC is the center of excellence for naval aviation training and tactics development in integrated strike warfare, weapons employment, irregular warfare and maritime and overland air superiority.