SAN DIEGO — Cmdr. Michael Winslow was relieved by Cmdr. Nick Van Wagoner as commanding officer of the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson during a change of command ceremony held at Naval Base San Diego on July 19.
“A time-honored tradition, change of command ceremonies celebrate the accomplishments of a commanding officer and his crew, and ceremonially transfer responsibility, accountability and authority to his relief,” said Capt. Douglas Meagher, commodore, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 1. “Nick, welcome home. For those that don’t know, Cmdr. Van Wagoner did his Executive Officer tour on USS Jackson…Continue to lead with the inspiration you have in the past, determine the appropriate level of risk to assume for the ship and crew, and ready her for sea, she will stay busy.”
Among many accomplishments, during Winslow’s time in command, Jackson transitioned from a dual-crew to a single crew and deployed in support of Pacific Partnership 2023 less than two months later.
During the ceremony, Winslow was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his superior accomplishments.
Jackson 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.
“To my friends, shipmates and colleagues who are in the audience today, thank you for your continued support and mentorship over the years,” said Van Wagoner. “I love this crew, I asked to come back and actually got my wish! You have an outstanding waterfront reputation, and I’m so proud to be back as your captain.”
