USS New Orleans (LPD 18) Change of Command

22 December 2022 SASEBO, Japan -- Capt. Douglas Graber relinquished command of San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) to Capt. Patrick German during a change of command ceremony held in the ship's well deck, December 22. 

Graber initially took command of New Orleans on September 23, 2021 and led the ship through a highly successful patrol and its associated preparations as part of U.S. 7th Fleets forward deployed in Sasebo, Japan. 

“Looking back at my time on the New Orleans, I’m very proud of what we did for the past 15 months,” said Graber. “You, the crew, taught me the true meaning of “Victory from the Sea.” 

Graber’s next assignment has him taking command of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. 

“As a surface warfare officer, I would definitely be remiss if I did not recognize the special accomplishment of an NFO serving as CO in the front seat of a surface ship,” said Capt. Kelly Fletcher, commodore of Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, as she presented Graber with an honorary Surface Warfare Officer Insignia pin. “Captain Graber, your successful tours of duty and your devotion to duty is very clear, and I thank you for your service.” 

German expressed his enthusiasm in taking command of New Orleans. 

“For the crew of New Orleans, it is my goal that you succeed,” said German. “I truly believe that my 35 years in the Navy has little to no value if I am not devoting my time and energy to helping you identify and reach every last one of your goals.” 

German originally enlisted in the Navy in 1987 as a Hospital Corpsman and commissioned as a Surface Warfare Officer after graduating from the University of Oklahoma in 2000. New Orleans is German’s third command in Sasebo at sea, completing successful tours on both USS Ashland (LSD 48) and USS Avenger (MCM 1). 

USS New Orleans, part of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serves as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.