SAN DIEGO — Cmdr. Ben Nehrke was relieved by Cmdr. Kevin Smith as commanding officer of the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Omaha (LCS 12) Gold crew during a ceremony at Naval Base San Diego on April 2.
During Nehrke’s time in command, Omaha completed an out-of-area dry dock availability in Seattle, Washington and multiple maintenance availabilities in San Diego to complete repairs and upgrades on multiple systems throughout the ship.
While Omaha was undergoing repairs, the crew began the Basic Phase, accomplishing multiple crew watch team and warfare certifications in the Littoral Training Facility.
“Thank you for what you do for the nation, for Omaha, and for each other. Remember that each and every one of you matter, not just because of the work you do but for who you are. You each have unique talents, gifts, abilities, experiences, and perspectives that only you can bring to the team,” said Nehrke. “I can’t wait to read about all of the great things you will accomplish as a team. I’m proud to have served alongside you.”
Nehrke was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his superior accomplishments, and will report to Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet for his next tour of duty.
“I know that this crew, onboard this ship, USS Omaha, has worked to bring a ship back from deep maintenance and to prepare both the equipment and ourselves for the many challenges ahead,” said Smith. “You know that the path isn’t always easy, but you also know the reward of doing it the right way and giving your best effort. I’m proud to serve with each of you and look forward to the many successes we will achieve in the future.”
A time-honored naval tradition, the ceremony allows the crew to formally acknowledge the passing of command from the current commanding officer to the next.
Nehrke is from Arlington, Virginia and was commissioned in 2004 through the NROTC program. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Military Institute and master’s degrees from Johns Hopkins University and the U.S. Naval War College.
Omaha is homeported in San Diego as a part of Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 1. Littoral combat ships are fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored surface combatants that operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments, winning against 21st-century threats.
Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Vance Hand.
