USS Thomas Hudner Change of Command Ceremony: Honoring a Legacy of Leadership and Service

USS Thomas Hudner Change of Command Ceremony Photos

1. Introduction

On January 5, 2024, at the Mayport Navy Base in Jacksonville, Florida, a significant event took place – the USS Thomas Hudner Change of Command Ceremony. This event marked the transition of leadership from Commander Shelby M. Nikitin to the incoming commander, Cmdr. Cameron Ingram. The Change of Command Ceremony is a time-honored tradition in the military, symbolizing the passing of responsibility, authority, and expertise from one commander to another.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, fellow servicemen and women, and family and friends, all gathering to honor the legacy of leadership and service that Commander Nikitin leaves behind. In this blog, we will explore the significance of this ceremony and the dedication and integrity shown by Commander Shelby M. Nikitin throughout her naval career. We will also highlight the importance of capturing these special moments through photography, immortalizing the memories and the honor bestowed upon those who serve in the military.

2. The Legacy of USS Thomas Hudner

The USS Thomas Hudner holds a rich and storied history, one that is rooted in bravery, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to duty. Named after Medal of Honor recipient and Korean War veteran Lieutenant Thomas J. Hudner Jr., this ship stands as a symbol of courage and sacrifice.

Lieutenant Hudner’s heroic actions during the Korean War are a testament to the values and principles held dear by the United States Navy. He risked his own life to save his fellow pilot, Ensign Jesse L. Brown, becoming the first U.S. Navy recipient of the Medal of Honor during that conflict.

The USS Thomas Hudner is more than just a vessel; it is a living legacy of the men and women who have served aboard her. Each commander who takes the helm carries the weight of this legacy and bears the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of leadership and service.

As the new commander assumes her role, she steps into the shoes of those who came before her, shouldering the duty to continue the tradition of excellence set forth by Lieutenant Hudner and those who followed in his footsteps.

In the next section, we will delve deeper into the remarkable naval career of Commander Shelby M. Nikitin, highlighting her achievements and the impact she has made on the USS Thomas Hudner and its crew.

3. Change of Command Ceremony: A Symbol of Continuity and Excellence

The change of command ceremony aboard the USS Thomas Hudner is an important event that signifies a seamless transition of leadership and a commitment to upholding the legacy of excellence that Lieutenant Thomas J. Hudner Jr. established. During this ceremony, Commander Shelby M. Nikitin will be relieved of her command, handing the reins to her predecessor Cmdr. Cameron Ingram who will continue the proud tradition of leadership and service.

Commander Nikitin’s naval career is nothing short of remarkable. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the values and principles cherished by the United States Navy. Her commitment to excellence and her dedication to the crew of the USS Thomas Hudner have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers. Commander Nikitin was often times referenced to as “mom” from her sailors. They all look up to her, and they were all proud to be under her leadership for the last 8 month deployment.

In the next section, we will delve into Commander Nikitin’s impressive accomplishments and the impact she has already made on the ship and its crew. Stay tuned to learn more about this exceptional leader and the future of the USS Thomas Hudner.

4. Honoring Commander Shelby M. Nikitin: A Leader Among Leaders

Throughout her naval career, Commander Nikitin has achieved remarkable accomplishments and earned numerous accolades. Her dedication to excellence and meticulous attention to detail have set her apart, making her an inspiration to her peers and subordinates alike.

Under Commander Nikitin’s leadership, the navy guided-missile destroyer shot down “multiple one-way attack drones” while it was operating in the Red Sea, the Navy Times reported on Nov. 23rd. 2023.

Commander Nikitin was awarded a Bronze Star, for her acts of service.

5. Reflecting on the Service and Sacrifice of the USS Thomas Hudner Crew

As we embark on the end of the chapter with Commander Shelby M. Nikitin at the helm of the USS Thomas Hudner, it is essential to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice of the ship’s crew. Throughout its storied history, the USS Thomas Hudner has seen countless men and women dedicate themselves to the Navy’s mission.

From the ship’s namesake, Lieutenant Thomas J. Hudner Jr., who selflessly risked his life to save a fellow pilot during the Korean War, to the current crew members who diligently uphold the ship’s legacy, their commitment to duty deserves our utmost respect and gratitude.

The change of command ceremony symbolizes not only the passing of leadership from one commander to another but also the continuity of service and the preservation of the ship’s values. It is a moment to remember and honor all those who have served on the USS Thomas Hudner and the contributions and sacrifices they have made.

6. Looking Ahead: Captains Leading with Integrity and Dedication

As we look ahead with Cmdr. Cameron Ingram at the helm of the USS Thomas Hudner, we can expect a continuation of the ship’s commitment to leadership and service. Commander Ingram brings a wealth of experience and a dedication to upholding the ship’s values.

Under Commander Ingram’s leadership, we can anticipate various initiatives and programs that will further commemorate the ship’s rich history. These initiatives will not only pay tribute to the heroic actions of past crew members but also foster a sense of pride and unity among the current crew.

Commander Ingram’s focus on integrity and dedication will ensure that the USS Thomas Hudner remains a symbol of honor and service. We can look forward to witnessing the positive impact he will make on the ship and its crew.

7. Conclusion: A Tribute to Leadership and Service

In conclusion, the USS Thomas Hudner Change of Command Ceremony marked the ending of an era under the leadership of Commander Shelby M. Nikitin. With her extensive experience and devotion to the ship’s values, she lead with commitment to leadership and service.

It has been such an honor to witness the Change of Command Ceremony at Mayport Naval Base in Jacksonville Florida. It was truly inspirational to witness so much dedication, honor, and support as the USS Thomas Hudner changed hands of Command.

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8. From: Tonya Beaver Photography

As a photographer, getting to be a part of the USS Thomas Hudner Homecoming the day before, and now the change of command ceremony – I must say I was brought to tears countless times. The pressure to document the events so fully and accurately, not miss a shot, not mess up settings. Those broken record thoughts are constantly playing in my background. But the forefront of my mind was PRIDE to be an American. Any military ceremony is centered around tradition and ritual carried out through history.

So to play any type part of writing that history with my own craft and eye, it’s truly just an honor. From the first meetings of scheduling photography with Commander Nikitin, she has been thoughtful and detailed. The day of homecoming as I was engulfed with the friends, family, and crew – I constantly heard of the sailors heartfelt thoughts and feelings about Commander Nikitin. Every sailor wanted to introduce his family to her. They were PROUD to introduce her. As all the families replied with “We’ve heard so much about you!” – it was easy to tell the sense of “family” that had been created on the ship over the last 8 month deployment.

Fast forward to the Change of Command ceremony, I rode in with one of the USS Thomas Hudner Sailors. I asked him about his opinion of Commander Nikitin given what I had seen and heard about how the day before. He responded immediately with “she’s the best leader I’ve ever had. She genuinely cares about each and every one of us”.

Photography of the actual Change of Command Ceremony was quick and we were tirelessly not to miss one shot. Some of my favorite moments are watching Commandor Nikitin’s husband’s face as he watched his wife receive her new orders and awards. I could tell he was so proud of her in that moment. Commander Nikitin’s parents were also present, and their faces of such pride for their daughter. As you can tell from the photos, her sailors came out to support her as she transitioned from her role.

Another favorite photo of the ceremony was her tears as she received a Bronze Star for her service. What a moment full of emotion. My last favorite moment to photograph (and there are too many to count) – was her final walk off the USS Thomas Hudner. As the whistle blew and she walked hand and hand with her daughter, her husband behind her. She said her final goodbyes. Her sailors yelled “bye mom!” as everyone laughed. What a moment.

Thank you Commander Nikitin for inviting me to document such a monumental day in your life. I’m so honored to photograph the homecoming and change of command for USS Thomas Hudner. It will be moments not forgotten for a lifetime.

Tonya Beaver Photography Studio Location: Jacksonville Beach, FL

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