Shutdown: New Pacific Fleet Commander to Take Reigns Today without CNO or Programs

October 16, 2013 11:20 AM

Vice Adm. Harry Harris, Jr. US Navy Photo
Vice Adm. Harry Harris, Jr. US Navy Photo
Due to the government shutdown the Navy will hold a lower key change of command ceremony to install the new commander of the service’s Pacific Fleet today.

Vice Adm. Harry Harris Jr. will take the rank of admiral before taking command of the U.S. Pacific Fleet from Adm. Cecil Haney in ceremony on Wednesday.

The ceremony will lack programs and an appearance from Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert due to the shutdown, according to a report on The Associated Press.

Adm. Samuel Locklear — U.S. Pacific Command commander — will oversee the change of command.

Haney will move on to head U.S. Strategic Command.

Harris graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1978 and served as a naval flight officer primarily in maritime patrol aircraft.

Sam LaGrone

Sam LaGrone

Sam LaGrone is the editor of USNI News. He has covered legislation, acquisition and operations for the Sea Services since 2009 and spent time underway with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the Canadian Navy.
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