MANAMA, Bahrain - Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56 held a change of command ceremony aboard U.S. Naval Support Activity Bahrain, June 24.
Capt. Joseph A. DiGuardo Jr. relieved Capt. Daniel M. Colman as commodore of CTF 56.
CTF 56 plans and executes expeditionary combat support throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. The task force encompasses nine task groups whose missions range from explosive ordnance disposal and Navy diving, Naval construction forces and expeditionary logistics support, maritime interdiction operations and maritime security, to embarked security teams and combat camera.
“It’s truly impressive to see what this organization does, Dan’s hard work and dedication ensured that CTF 56 accomplished the mission 24-7,” said Vice Adm. John Miller, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Forces Maritime Component Commander. “All of those who have served in command know that a great ship or squadron does not just happen. It takes hard work and a committed leadership team to make it great. Dan, you have been tireless in your efforts to provide your Sailors with every possible tool to keep them and their families safe and secure, both afloat and ashore, here in this forward deployed environment.”
Colman, assumed command of CTF 56 in July 2011, and received a Legion of Merit award, for his performance as commodore. His next duty station is at the National War College, in Washington, D.C.
“There are many people that I would like to thank, and first goes to Adm. Miller. I always told him, thanks for letting me command, and he responded with, that is my job to let you command,” said Colman. “He always provided me with great guidance and support.”
DiGuardo is reporting to CTF 56 from the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, D.C.
The task force and its assigned task groups employ more than 1,700 expeditionary Sailors throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
5th Fleet is responsible for approximately 2.5 million square miles of area including the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, parts of the Indian Ocean and 20 countries.