ESG 2 Holds Change of Command Ceremony

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Anna Wade, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 held a change of command ceremony July 19 at Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 at Joint Expeditionary Base (JEB) Little Creek-Fort Story, Va.

Rear Adm. Kevin D. Scott relieved Adm. Michelle J. Howard as ESG 2 commanding officer.

Vice Adm. Melvin G. Williams, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, was the guest speaker for the ceremony and spoke about the Navy's belief system and how Scott and Howard, as well as other Navy members, represent those ideals.

"We serve globally. We can shape events. We can prevent wars," said Williams.

He said the world is now more complex than the era when Howard and Scott entered the Navy. Sailors and Marines must be more prepared to face the uncertain future. All members of the Navy hold an essential piece to the entire community.

"To me, serving the people is important" said Williams.

Williams stepped away from the podium as a loud round of applause filled the hanger bay.

Command Master Chief Anthony Josey, command master chief of ESG 2, presented Howard with a special award for her service with ESG 2.

"Howard has set a standard that will be very hard to meet. All I can hope for is to keep the fire burning. Thank you all for coming today. God bless you and America," said Scott.

The ceremony was concluded with the formal reading of the official orders by Howard and Scott. Afterwards, they followed the traditional procedure, officially passing authority from Howard to Scott.

ESG 2 deploys as an operational ESG and directly supports all Atlantic Fleet Amphibious ships. It is also involved in the execution of humanitarian and disaster relief missions.