Going to a change of command ceremony...

[willysmb44]

I'm likely going to a change of command ceremony for an old high school friend who's taking command of a destroyer reasonably soon, but I want to be sure I have an idea what's going to happen and how it's handled as I was in the Army and know nothing of USN tradition.

First off, how should I dress? The invite said business causal for civilians, but wouldn't a suit be better? The sailors are wearing whites, but I think the short sleeve version.

The whole, "permission to come aboard" at the gangplank is for Navy personnel, right?

Also, should I get my friend a card or gift of some kind?

Again, I'm totally clueless about Navy stuff as I know they're far more steeped in tradition than the Army. I worked on two company changes of command, and the spectators had no real role.

[Dave]

Hmmm...I've done a few of these. Here are my words of wisdom:

 

1. Depending on the time of year, dress comfortably. Most of the time, they'll pitch tents out on the pier for the guests to sit under. If the day is warm, it can be sweltering underneath (been there, done that!) People dress in all kinds of things...ranging from t-shirts to suits. I'd say dress appropriately for the weather. If it's going to be cool, I'd go for a more casual suit...maybe without a tie. If it's going to be warm, a nice shirt and slacks are fine. I'd stay away from jeans, though I've seen plenty of those worn. In the big picture, I've done many changes of command ceremonies...and for the life of me, I can't tell you what any one person in particular wore. And I probably couldn't have told you the day after, either!

 

2. Depending on the size of the crowd, they may or may not allow you on the ship. The last one I did for my last ship (a DDG), I don't recall any of the guests going onboard. They all stayed on the pier and the reception was held off-site. I have done several changes of command on the ships' flight decks. In that case, most of the time you'll come across the brow with an escorted group and from those I've seen, the guests didn't stop at the top of the brow as they were being escorted by ship's force. Now, in the case that you do come on board the ship, here's what to do: as you're walking up the brow, stop at some point, face toward the stern (back end) of the ship, come to some semblance of "attention" while facing the flag, count to one or two, and then continue up the brow. Maybe someone else can chime in here, but I rarely ever saw civilians put their hand on their heart while facing the flag...typically they'd come to attention and then keep going (if they even did that, to be honest...) Once you get to the top of the brow, stop, and ask the officer of the deck (or perhaps the or the junior officer of the deck or petty officer of the watch, should they be standing in for them, as the OOD might be busy) "Permission to come aboard". They might nod, they might say "permission granted", they might say "welcome aboard"...all kind of depends on a change of command day, especially with a bunch of civilians coming onboard. When in doubt, wait for a crowd and go on board with them...and just do what they do. LOL Most likely, there will be a bunch of people milling around and things will be pretty relaxed as far as the rules are concerned (unless, of course, the ship or the OOD is particularly gung-ho, then things might be different!)

 

3. As far as a gift, I don't recall ever seeing any. And besides, I'd wait till his change of command following the successful completion of his tour! Even at that, I've not seen an exchange of gifts. If you want to "go crazy" a nice, hand-written note thanking him for being invited to the ceremony and wishing him all the best in his tour would be appropriate and appreciated.

 

That should cover all the questions. I've done quite a few of these on FFGs and DDGs, and a handful with flag officers...and every one of them has been different, so it's really tough to say what to expect. Do keep in mind your friend will be probably going through a dozen different emotions that day, and his boss will be present (and maybe his boss' boss!) so don't be surprised if he's a bit out of sorts. With him taking command, it's really not his day in the spotlight...it's the party for the guy who made it through his tour without getting fired, so also keep that in mind as well.

 

Hope that helps!

Dave

[willysmb44]

Thanks a lot, Dave!

[swmdo]

Wear good non slip shoes, and wear something that won't show oil or grease wet paint if you accidentally come into contact or rub against it. Be careful walking up or down ladders and the brow as they may be slick from moisture or humidity. I usually hold the rails just in case. Facing the flag on the stern prior to coming aboard or departing the ship as well as asking permission to come aboard or go ashore is appropriate. If the new CO is your friend a small gift between friends is okay. You could give it to him discreetly say if you get a tour or invited into his cabin or wardroom for dinner or lunch. Obviously when everyone stands or sits you follow what the others are doing usually someone will be the master of ceremony and will follow the change of command book and script that is provided to guests as part of the ceremony. Make sure you grab one also bottle water if they are giving them out. Bottom line just relax and enjoy the ceremony and the tradition. A great honor to be invited!!

[willysmb44]

Thanks for the advice, guys. I am committed to going, which means I'm going to be on a plane for a while to get there. It's just something I thought I should do, as I promised him if he ever took command of a ship I would be there when he did. He's one of my oldest friends, I've known him since I was in high school, for more than 30 years. And yes, he's the one taking command.

[topdcnut]

Follow Daves advice and you can follow the protocol on the brow, who knows you might be mistaken as a NAVET just do not feel slighted if you leave feeling like an afterthought you friend has taken a huge step into a huge world, the ceremony will be amazing. Enjoy the day !