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Cmdr. Raymond Gabriel assumed command from Capt. Michael Holland and became the Providence's 11th commanding officer.
During Holland's tour as commanding officer, he led Providence through two deployments, including a stop at the North Pole last July to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first submarine polar transit, completed by USS Nautilus (SSN 571) in 1958.
"Getting our submarines underway is our most valuable contribution to national security," said guest speaker Capt. Richard Breckenridge, J8 Directorate Chief of Staff. "Today we honor an aspiring leader for a job well done."
Holland attributed his success to his crew, saying that the crew is the heart of the ship, and they are brilliant.
"We all take a piece of our former leaders with us when we leave. I pray I have left as much behind as I took away," he added.
Holland will next serve as the Deputy for Training for Commander Submarine Development Squadron 12.
Gabriel, a native of Howell, N.J., previously served as the Executive Officer aboard USS Memphis (SSN 691) laid down a fresh challenge for his new crew.
"The pride is back in Providence," he declared. "I challenge you - the officers, chiefs, and crew - to maintain the tenacity and drive as we continue to serve a cause greater than our own."
Breckenridge awarded Holland the Legion of Merit Medal during the ceremony.
USS Providence (SSN 719), named for the capital city of Rhode Island, is the fifth ship of our Naval History to bear the name. The keel was laid Oct. 14, 1982. It was launched Aug. 4, 1984, and commissioned July 27, 1985.
