New commander of NSASP sworn in during ceremony
Changing of guard at naval base
Capt. Michael O’Leary took over as commanding officer for Naval Support Activity South Potomac on Wednesday, relieving Capt. Mary Feinberg of her duties.
The change of command ceremony was held on the parade field of Naval Support Facility Dahlgren in front of friends and family of the captains, as well as service members and civilians working on the base.
Feinberg held the position for three years. Under her lead, NSA South Potomac closed the Navy’s last coal-fired power plant, improved hazardous waste storage and opened an $11 million fitness center. The organization also put on three concerts, including the first at NSF Indian Head in 15 years.
“Nothing would be possible without the dedicated efforts of the employees, both military and civilian,” Feinberg said. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve with you.”
Following the national anthem and an invocation from Lt. Joshua Okwori, guest speaker Rear Admiral Charles Rock commended Feinberg for her work as commanding officer and offered some light ribbing of the diminutive captain.
“Mary will be remembered for many things here at South Potomac,” Rock said. “Her drive, her commitment, her cool demeanor, but not her towering height.”
Rock presented Feinberg with an award in recognition of her three years at the helm, in addition to a pin for her service.
“What Mary lacks in stature is more than made up in her leadership and her dedication to her team,” Rock said. “Anybody that knows Mary admires her tireless work ethic, her optimistic outlook that permeates the entire command.”
For the past two years, O’Leary has worked for the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This will mark his second assignment in Dahlgren, as O’Leary reported to the Joint Warfare Analysis Center in 2007.
O’Leary thanked his family for their support and praised Feinberg after assuming command.
“I look forward to maintaining outstanding support and collaboration with our peers throughout the region and our partners both inside and outside the fence line,” O’Leary said. “Captain Feinberg, you have built a tremendous legacy here in the South Potomac region. I hope to fill your figuratively large shoes.”