SAN DIEGO – U.S. Navy Capt. Jose Arana assumed command of the USS Makin Island from Capt. Andria Slough during a ceremony held aboard amphibious assault ship on Oct. 17.
Slough assumed command of Makin Island in April 2023 after serving as the ship’s executive officer since 2021.
As Makin Island’s commanding officer, her leadership spearheaded the completion of numerous training and certification events. Throughout her tour, she executed 11 individual exercises and operations involving 22 partner nations. She guided Makin Island to earn the 2023 Battle Effectiveness Award, achieving a 100% first-pass qualification rate in every mission area.
“Serving as the commanding officer of the USS Makin Island has been the most rewarding experience of my career,” said Slough. “The dedication and resilience of this crew, combined with the constant improvement of our capabilities on this ship, have made every challenge an opportunity for growth.”
Arana, a 1997 graduate of the University of Florida, was commissioned in 1999 through the Officer Candidate School program. He has served as the executive officer of Makin Island since April 2023.
He also served as a global strike advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secretary of Defense, and the President of the United States.
“I am both humbled and excited to lead the finest amphibious ship in the fleet,” Arana said. “This ship and its crew have a legacy of excellence, innovation, and resilience. I look forward to continuing that tradition, guiding our team to new heights, and ensuring we are always mission-ready, wherever the call may take us.”
Makin Island, homeported in San Diego, is currently in a selective restricted availability. The Wasp-class ship is crewed by more than 1,200 sailors and can embark more than 1,600 Marines. Makin Island’s mission is to transport and land ashore troops, equipment, and supplies to support and sustain amphibious assault operations.
