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 Skarpness Takes Command of Submarine Squadron 17 Ratte took command of Submarine Squadron 17, which is responsible for manning, training and equipping six ballistic missile submarines (SSBN) and 12 crews, in 2008. “Working with the highly motivated Sailors, officers, and the command teams who comprise our crews has been the best part of being commander,” said Ratte, a 1984 U.S. Naval Academy graduate. When asked about his departing commodore, Command Master Chief Mitch Erhardt, Submarine Squadron 17, had only praise for Ratte’s positive and level headed leadership style. “Commodore Ratte is very down to earth and easy to talk to,” said Erhardt. “He has a great reputation as a level headed leader, and he has provided me and the crews of our ships with outstanding mentoring that will carry us into the future.” When asked what he would miss the most about commanding his staff Ratte responded, “There is no doubt that every person transferring from a command misses the great shipmates they serve with in the command. There frequently are challenges that appear insurmountable at first blush, but when you partner with a great team, in this case ‘Team Bangor’, you find a way to solve the problem and for that I am grateful and will miss them as I move on.” Skarpness praised Ratte’s accomplishments, and looks forward to the challenges ahead of him. “I have known Commodore Dave Ratte for over twenty years. He is a great friend and has achieved an unsurpassed professional reputation for excellence and mission accomplishment in support of our nation’s defense,” said Skarpness. “I fully expect Submarine Squadron 17 to maintain its superb record of performance, and I’m looking forward to working closely with the great Pacific Northwest Navy team.” Ratte will report to Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic as the Director for Maintenance and Material Readiness. |
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