USS Seawolf Holds Change of Command
By COMSUBGRU Nine Public Affairs

Release Date: 02/17/2010

(BANGOR, Washington) – USS Seawolf (SSN 21) bid farewell to their commanding officer, Cmdr. Harry Ganteaume, during a change of command ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap, February 17, 2010.

With the traditional reading of orders and a motivational battle cry “Hooyah Seawolf” from the Sailors he commanded, Ganteaume turned over his boat and crew to Cmdr. Daniel Packer.

Ganteaume and Packer have more than just command of Seawolf in common. Working with and providing guidance to Sailors is a priority for them both.

“The best part of being a commanding officer is being able to contribute to the development of many of our future leaders, both in the officer and enlisted ranks,” said Ganteaume.
 
Packer echoed this in what he is looking forward to most about taking command, “I look forward to working with the best this nation has to offer, these Sailors are all dedicated to the service of the nation.”

During Ganteaume’s command the boat and crew conducted a change of homeport from Groton, CT. to Bremerton, Wa., a successful six-month Western Pacific deployment and completion of the initial third of a 21-month Depot Modernization Period on schedule and on budget, which is the first DMP for a Seawolf class submarine.

Electronics Technician Master Chief Petty Officer Jared Hofer, USS SEAWOLF of the Boat, praised Ganteaume’s leadership and ability to inspire each Sailor.
 
“He has been one of the most compassionate and steadfast leaders I have ever worked with, he was truly an inspiration to each one of us,” said Hofer. “Each day he inspired us to commit to doing our best and to be proud and excited about the opportunity to serve onboard the world’s most capable submarine.”

Packer, a Naval Academy graduate, most recently served as the Operations Officer, Directorate of Intelligence, U.S. Joint Forces Command. He is looking forward to the challenge of getting Seawolf back to sea once they complete the Depot Modernization Period.
 
“Our mission is to get Seawolf back to sea, ensuring the nation’s security, on time and on schedule,” said Packer.

Ganteaume’s next assignment will be as the Deputy for Operations, Commander, Submarine Group Seven in Yokosuka, Japan.