CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston-based Coast Guard Cutter Gallatin is scheduled to have a change of command ceremony aboard the cutter here Friday at 11 a.m., where Capt. John T. Davis will assume command from Capt. Robert P. Wagner.
Davis reports to Gallatin from the Coast Guard Atlantic Area staff in Portsmouth, Va., where he served as the chief of the cutter forces division for the last year and eight months.
When asked for his thoughts on assuming command of Gallatin, Davis said, “The Gallatin is one of the oldest and well-known ships in the Coast Guard's Atlantic Area fleet, and has historically provided vital maritime security and defense for our nation,” said Davis. “I'm honored to have this command, and am very much looking forward to this tour of duty.”
Gallatin’s previous commanding officer, Capt. Mike B. Christian was temporarily relieved of command on March 3, by Vice Adm. Robert J. Papp, Jr., Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. His relief has since been made permanent, and Christian will be reassigned to a new position in the Coast Guard.
Wagner assumed temporary command of Gallatin following the relief. Wagner is also the commanding officer of the Coast guard Cutter Dallas, also homeported in Charleston.
The 40-year-old cutter Gallatin has been in Coast Guard service since Dec. 20, 1968, and is a multi-mission platform used to enforce federal and international fishing regulations, conduct illegal migration and drug interdiction patrols, conduct search and rescue and homeland security missions. Gallatin has also played an integral part in the national defense of our country both at home and abroad, and has deployed with U.S. Naval and foreign naval units in the Mediterranean, Baltic and Black seas in support of multi-national exercises and operations.
*** MEDIA NOTES ***
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Media is invited to attend the ceremony on board the Old Navy Base, Pier Papa, at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in north Charleston.
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Immediately following the ceremony Vice Adm. Papp, and captains Davis and Wagner, will be available for interviews.
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If you would like to attend the ceremony please R.S.V.P. to (305) 318-1864.
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Media must arrive at FLETC no later than 10:30 a.m.
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