Navy Region Southwest holds change of command, welcomes new 'Navy Mayor'
12/11/2011
by MC1 Bill Larned, Navy Region Southwest
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Navy Region Southwest (NRSW) held a change of command ceremony Dec. 9 aboard the USS Midway Museum in San Diego.

Rear Adm. Dixon Smith relieved Rear Adm. William French as the region's commander on the flight deck of the decommissioned carrier during an event attended by military, local city leaders and guests.

French has led Navy Region Southwest since Aug. 2009 and during his watch, NRSW became a leader in energy and water conservation. NRSW is an active user of wind, geothermal and solar energy. In February 2010, six NRSW facilities were honored with Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Awards. During Operation Tomadachi, NRSW provided evacuation support to over 475 family members who left Japan following the March 11 tsunami.

During his farewell speech, French discussed the accomplishments the region achieved during his time at the helm.

"From the routine to the complex, Navy Region Southwest has excelled at every endeavor, at every opportunity. I guess it's expected when you have the best people in your organization and the best partnerships in the communities surrounding our bases. Whether responding to an earthquake, a power outage, a plane crash, or a wildfire, we have met every challenge. I am confident we will continue to meet every future challenge together," French said. French will soon lead all shore installations as Commander, Navy Installations Command.

French praised the city of San Diego and the communities that have directly supported the Navy. He gave particular praise to organizations that assist military families or help promote the defense industry in California.

"Your efforts often go unrecognized. So, publicly, on the record, thanks for what you do for all of our Sailors and families," said French.

Smith described the importance of building relationships with local communities.

"I am convinced that leading a region is all about relationships. When we work together, we can identify and cultivate win-win solutions to challenges we as a community and a society always seem to face. To the southwest team, I look forward to working alongside you once again, serving the fleet, fighter and family. We have the unique position within the Navy to serve those who serve our country," Smith said.

Rear Adm. Smith is from Green's Farms, Conn., and received his commission from the United States Naval Academy in 1983 and was designated a surface warfare officer in 1985. He holds a master's degree in business from Webster University and is a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.

Smith is returning to the southwest region after serving as commander of both Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific. Smith previously served as Naval Base San Diego commanding officer from Oct. 2005 to Oct. 2008.

"It's great to be back in San Diego, without a doubt, America's finest city and the Navy's best homeport. It's good to be home," Smith said.

Navy Region Southwest encompasses six states with a large military presence. More than 75,000 active duty Sailors serve at 11 installations throughout the region.