Navy Region Center Singapore Holds Change of Command

From Navy Region Singapore Public Affairs

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- Capt. Scott Murdock relieved Capt. Paul Foster as commanding officer, Navy Region Center Singapore (NRCS), during a change of command ceremony, May 15.

The guest speaker, U.S. Ambassador to Singapore, Kirk Wagar, lauded Foster's many accomplishments, including his sustained focus on improving installation facilities and services with available resources for the entire U.S. government community.

"You have improved the quality of life for all our military and State Department personnel deployed to Singapore," said the Ambassador. "We all know that this installation is the backbone of what we do overseas."

Over the past three years, Capt. Foster oversaw installation facilities, personnel and services, including improvements to housing, family support programs and morale, welfare and recreation. During his watch, the community's all hands Terror Club, Navy Exchange and Fleet Fitness Center became world class facilities. He also enhanced relationships with the host nation as well as other regional allies and partners in Singapore.

"While I might get a little credit for how far we've come, I cannot say enough about the people who work extremely hard each day to make our facilities and services in Singapore better," said Foster.

With more than 26 years of active duty service, Capt. Foster will continue his career in the Asia-Pacific region as the commanding officer of the Fleet Coordination Group assigned to Seventh Fleet in Yokosuka, Japan.

Capt. Murdock assumed command of NRCS following a tour as Operations Officer, Carrier Strike Group Three in Bremerton, Washington.

"It's an honor to serve as commanding officer here and to build upon the improvements already underway," said Murdock. "With your help, I look forward to making this installation even better."

While no U.S. base exists in Singapore, the U.S. Navy has leased facilities from the Singaporean government for several decades, and many U.S. ships, aircraft and personnel visit Singapore each year to rest, relax and reset. Today, the U.S. military community in Singapore includes active duty personnel, government civilians, family members, and local national employees distributed among 18 commands.

Established in 2007, NRCS provides administrative support to U.S. commands in Singapore and to visiting U.S., allied and partner navies. It also manages 165 family and bachelor housing units and dozens of command, administrative and warehouse facilities to support the operational readiness of active duty military personnel and their families.