Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

SASEBO, Japan – The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Patriot (MCM 7) conducted a change of command ceremony at Commander Fleet Activities Sasebo.

On 07 March 2014, Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Mathew E. Hollinger relieved Lieutenant Commander Jonathan A. Hopkins as commanding officer of Patriot. Captain Mark A. Truluck, Commodore of Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7 (MCMRON 7), served as the guest speaker of the ceremony.

“This event marks the completion of a successful command tour by LCDR. Hopkins,” said Truluck. “Over the past 22 months he has done a fabulous job leading his crew.”

Hopkins was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal for his outstanding efforts as commanding officer.

“To be a commanding officer means to serve all the Sailors that work underneath you,” said Hopkins. “I can’t think of another job I’d rather have than being the commanding officer of the Patriot.”

Hopkins is confident that his relief, who previously served as the Patriot’s Executive Officer, will be an excellent leader.

“Matt Hollinger is an incredibly capable naval officer, I have no doubt that he will do great things as they move forward.” said Lieutenant Commander Hopkins.

LCDR Hollinger said that the crew benefited greatly from having Hopkins serve as commanding officer, and that he is looking forward to continuing the success of Patriot.

“I’m not serving as commanding officer for me; I’m serving for the crew. We have some challenges ahead of us, but I think they will exceed all expectations.” said Lieutenant Commander Hollinger.