Change of Command Ceremony for US Coast Guard Cutter Halibut Set for July 28 2005



> Change of Command Ceremony for U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Halibut Set for July 28, 2005

On July 28, 2005 Marina Del Rey will bid farewell and good luck to Lieutenant Khristopher Johns and welcome to Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Nathan Swardson during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Halibut mooring in Marina Del Rey.

July 27, 2005 -- On July 28, 2005 Marina Del Rey will bid farewell and good luck to Lieutenant Khristopher Johns and welcome to Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Nathan Swardson during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Halibut mooring in Marina Del Rey. The change of command ceremony is a formal ritual conducted before the entire ship's company. It restates to the ship's company that the continuity of authority and command will be maintained. At 10:00 a.m. LT Johns will transfer total responsibility, authority and accountability to LTJG Swardson both of whom are graduates of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT.

Johns who was recently promoted to Lieutenant has been the Halibut's commanding officer since June 13th 2003. Since assuming command he has lead the Halibut through numerous Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and Homeland Security missions. His new assignment will be as District 13 Law Enforcement Officer and Patrol Boat Manager Enforcement Officer at USCG District 13 in Seattle Washington. LT. Johns who is originally from Craig, CO, joined the Coast Guard in July 7 1997. Prior to serving as the Halibut's commanding officer LT Johns was assigned to USCGC Sherman. LT Johns received his commission on May 23, 2001. LT John is a Coast Guard Achievement Medal recipient.

Replacing LT Johns is LTJG Nathan Swardson. LTJG Swardson has served aboard the USCGC Resolute as the Deck Watch, Communications and Administrative Officer. He also served as the Executive Officer aboard the USCGC Wrangell during its deployment to the middle east in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. LTJG Swardson, who is originally from Valparaiso, IA has been awarded the Coast Guard Achievement, Navy Commendation, Global War of Terrorism and Unit Commendation Medals.

The USCGC Halibut was commissioned on April 26, 2002. LTJG Swardson will be her third CO. The Halibut is of the Marine Protector Class. Its primary missions are Homeland Security, Search and Rescue and Maritime Law Enforcement.





Change of Command Ceremony for US Coast Guard Cutter Halibut Set for July 28 2005