CHARLESTON, S.C. –
The crew of Coast Guard Station Charleston conducted a change of command ceremony June 22, 2018, at Station Charleston, located on the peninsula downtown.
During the ceremony, Senior Chief Petty Officer Justin Longval transferred command of Coast Guard Station Charleston to Senior Chief Petty Officer Brian Martin.
Longval served as the officer in charge of Station Charleston since 2014 and has led the Station to execute over 8,500 underway hours, conducting 400 escorts and 1,400 law enforcement boardings, as well as responding to 350 search-and-rescue cases.
The change of command ceremony marks a transfer of total responsibility and authority from one individual to another. It is a time-honored tradition, conducted before the assembled crew, as well as honored guests and dignitaries, to formally demonstrate the continuity of the authority within a command.
“Being in command of Coast Guard Station Charleston for the past four years has been an amazing opportunity," said Longval. "The crew, along with our agency partners, made my time here memorable and the daily contributions they make towards the safety and security of the Port of Charleston are a testament to their dedication to the community. Charleston will likely be ‘home’ in the future and we look forward to what the next several years has in store for our family.”
Longval is transferring to Coast Guard Station Menemsha, Massachusetts, where he will hold the position of officer in charge.
“My family and I look forward to soaking up the southern hospitality, rich history, elegant charm, and unique culture Charleston has to offer,” said Martin. “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community as officer in charge of Coast Guard Station Charleston. I hope to continue the outstanding work Senior Chief Longval has done and I welcome the challenges that lie ahead.”
Martin comes to Charleston from Coast Guard Station Milford Haven, Virginia, where he held the position of officer in charge.