Military Sealift Command Atlantic, the Norfolk, Va.,-based U.S. Navy command responsible for Military Sealift Command ships transporting equipment, fuel, supplies and ammunition in the Western Atlantic Ocean, changed command during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk today.
Capt. Samuel R. Norton assumed command of MSCLANT from outgoing commander Capt. Michael G. Graham during a 10 a.m. ceremony at the Vista Point Conference Center.
Norton last served as commander of amphibious assault ship USS Nassau, which he led on its final deployment prior to decommissioning earlier this year.
"I am honored to take the helm of a command as vibrant and important as MSCLANT," said Norton. "It will be a rewarding challenge to carry on such a vital DOD mission."
Norton's at-sea commands also include mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer and amphibious transport dock ship USS Trenton. Nassau, Pioneer and Trenton were all selected as Commander Naval Surface Force Atlantic Battle "E" winners under Norton's leadership.
Capt. Norton's shore duty assignments include Afloat Training Group Norfolk's Gas Turbine Team Four, Amphibious Group Two's Training and Readiness Department, and U.S. Joint Forces Command's Resources and Process Improvement Branch.
Graham's next assignment is with the Naval Surface Force Atlantic as its chief of staff. The command, located at Naval Support Activity, Norfolk, was established in 1975 as the type commander for the cruiser/destroyer, amphibious and mine forces in the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
MSCLANT is one of five worldwide operational commands that are part of the Navy's Military Sealift Command, headquartered in Washington, D.C. MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners.
Source: http://www.msc.navy.mil
