St. Louis Native Assumes Command of U.S. Navy LCS

by Petty Officer 2nd Class Vance Hand

03 December 2021 NAVAL BASE SAN DIEGO, CA, UNITED STATES -- A St. Louis, native, Jaskowiak is the newest commanding officer of an Independence-variant littoral combat ship.

Cmdr. Derek C. Jaskowiak became the commanding officer of USS Oakland (LCS 24) Blue Crew, during a change of command ceremony, Dec. 3, 2021.

As commanding officer, Jaskowiak maintains absolute authority and responsibility to ensure the safe handling of Oakland and the safety, well-being and proficiency of the crew.

“I am honored and humbled to be entrusted as the Commanding Officer of USS Oakland. It is a great responsibility, and I will do my upmost to meet it,” said Jaskowiak. “I am eager to tackle future challenges and lead Oakland on her maiden deployment next year.”

Prior to serving as the commanding officer, Jaskowiak served as Oakland Blue Crew’s executive officer.

Jaskowiak graduated from Parkway West in 1999, and then from the United States Naval Academy in 2003 with a Bachelor’s Degree in in Systems Engineering and was the starting left tackle on the football team, he also earned a Master’s of Science degree in Systems Technology from the Naval Post Graduate School in 2004.

The Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) is a fast, agile, mission-focused platform designed to operate in near-shore environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. The LCS is capable of supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.