JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Cmdr. Charles Phillip relieved Cmdr. Marquis Patton as the Navy Munitions Command Unit Charleston commanding officer during a routine change of command ceremony at the RedBank Club at Joint Base Charleston - Weapons Station, April 12.
Capt. Charles Marks, Navy Munitions Command Continental United States East Division commander was the guest speaker for the event. Marks spoke of Patton's superb performance as the NMC Unit Charleston commanding officer.
"There is a wonderful sense of community and dedication to the mission that is unique to the Lowcountry here at Unit Charleston," Marks said. "Over the past two years, Unit Charleston has been met with nothing but success. I want to thank Marquis for your forthright honesty, your drive and desire to accomplish the mission. These attributes were things that I knew I could always rely on, even when dealing with the most complex and difficult situations. I am exceedingly pleased that you will not be heading all that far away, as you and Charles swap positions, something that I expect will benefit both the Air Force and the Navy as we continue to work through the ins and outs of joint basing."
Following his remarks, Marks presented Patton with the Meritorious Service Medal. The medal citation read in part, "...over the past 24 months, Commander Patton supported 38 exercises, eight Research, Development, Test and Evaluation events and one Home Land Security.
Patton expressed his satisfaction and appreciation for his Sailors as well as the command Ombudsman, command deputy ordnance manager and many others for their support and encouragement during his two-year tour.
"Unit Charleston is one of 40 NMC units or detachments worldwide," Patton said. "We have two unique missions: Maritime pre-positioned forces and mine warfare. Since I've been here in Charleston, I found that you all [staff members] are some of the best ordnance professionals in our field and I am proud to have been your commanding officer.
"I want to thank my amazing staff for making this tour a success and I am deeply humbled by your support and dedication," Patton concluded. "I will truly miss all of you, but you won't have to go too far to look me up."
Patton will assume Phillip's position as Naval Support Activity Charleston's executive officer.
Cmdr. Phillip congratulated Patton for the unit's exceptional reputation and the honor he felt in being given the opportunity to command NMC Unit Charleston.
"To the men and women of NMC Unit Charleston ... I look forward to working with each and every one of you and being a part of all that you've accomplished," Phillip said.
"Today we embark on a new chapter in the history of NMC Unit Charleston and its support to the fleet," Phillip concluded. "I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of that endeavor with the crew."