Thank you to the Coast Guard

The Change of Command Ceremony is a time-honored naval tradition without an equivalent counterpart in any other service. Custom has established that this ceremony be formal and dignified-designed to strengthen the respect for authority which is vital to any military organization. Parading All Hands at Quarters and public reading of official orders stem from those days when movement of mail and persons was a very slow process. The procedure was designed to ensure that only duly authorized officers held command and that all aboard were aware of an order’s authenticity. The heart of the ceremony is the formal reading of official orders by the relieving officer and the officer being relieved. The Change of Command transfers total responsibility and authority from one individual to another. The simple ceremony, passing authority and responsibility, reflects the dedication of free men and women serving their nation proudly.

Captain John C.O’Connor III, Ed.D. Commander, Sector Boston, MA
Lieutenant Christjan C. Gaudio,        Commanding Officer, USCGC Grand Isle. His next assignment he is going to Saudi Arabia for a year.
Lieutenant Nolan J. Cuevas, Prospective Commanding Officer, USCGC Grand Isle

The Grand Isle is 110 feet and was built in Lockport, LA and was officially commissioned on 19 April 1991 in Gloucester, MA

On a personal note, I was very impressed with this ceremony and the dignity of our Coast Guard.