USS Columbus Holds Change of Command
By MC2 Ronald Gutridge
COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

Release Date: 09/02/2011

(PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii) – Cmdr. David Youtt relieved Cmdr. David Minyard as commanding officer of the Los Angeles-class submarine USS Columbus (SSN 762) in a time-honored change of command ceremony at the submarine piers at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 2.

Guest speaker Capt. James Pitts, Commander, Submarine Squadron 7, praised Minyard and his accomplishments while commanding Columbus and on his naval career.

"Your command tour has been the epitome of steady professionalism, quiet accomplishment, and most importantly, mission accomplishment," said Pitts. "Your extraordinary leadership and dedication has been exemplified in many ways while in command. Congratulations on a job well done."

Following Pitts remarks, Minyard was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in lieu of second award for his exceptional performance as commanding officer from May 2009 to Sept. 2011.

Minyard acknowledged that the majority of the submarine's success during his time as commanding officer could be attributed to the crew and their hard work efforts.
"Several years ago I pledged my sacred honor to serve you with the utmost of my ability and at every single turn, you have always executed the task at hand," said Minyard. "I encourage each and every one of you to keep doing what you do best, every man doing his job to accomplish the mission."

As Minyard's final act as commanding officer, he promoted Machinist Mate 2nd Class (SS) Armando Rodriguez to 1st Class Petty Officer through the Command Advancement Program.

"This is a total surprise and a huge milestone in my career," said Rodriguez. "I am really looking forward to the many challenges and responsibilities of a 1st class."

As Cmdr. Youtt assumed command of Columbus, he addressed the crew about the future.
"I am honored to be here today and glad to finally be a part of the Columbus team," said Youtt. "We will be challenged each day, but through sustained hard work, I have no doubt that the Columbus team will be ready to execute when called upon."

Cmdr. Minyard graduated with distinction from the United States Naval Academy in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering. After graduation, he worked at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as a research assistant prior to attending Nuclear Power School in Orlando, Fla., and the Nuclear Power Training Unit in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

His sea tours include USS Portsmouth (SSN 707), USS Helena (SSN 725) and USS Alabama (SSBN 731) (Blue).

His next assignment will in San Diego as an acquisition professional.