MANAMA, Bahrain – Dec. 7 - Vice Adm. James Malloy assumed command of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/U.S. 5th Fleet today at Naval Support Activity Bahrain.
Vice Adm. Malloy arrived in Bahrain following the death of former NAVCENT Commander Vice Adm. Scott A. Stearney.
“I had hoped to one day in the future exchange salutes with Admiral Stearney in Bahrain on a happier occasion. Now I plan to salute him every single day I am blessed to lead the men and women of 5th Fleet and the Combined Maritime Forces,” said Vice Adm. Malloy. “This Fleet’s mission has never been more vital and relevant and I am honored to join this team once again; excited to deepen enduring partnerships grown over 25 years.”
Vice Adm. Malloy arrived from the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations, where he served as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Operations, Plans and Strategy (N3/N5).
“I am here to maintain the momentum established on Vice Admiral Stearney’s watch, and continue his vision to expand relations with like-minded partners - promoting security and stability in the region,” he said. “The United States Navy has not adjusted its operations. We remain postured and ready to respond to any threat and, working closely with both regional and world-wide partners, will continue to ensure freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in international waterways.”
U.S. 5th Fleet/U.S. Naval Forces Central Command leads naval operations in the critically important and dynamic Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.
For further questions, please contact U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs Office 011-973-1785-4561 or, navcentpao@me.navy.mil