Navy support center holds change-of-command ceremony

A traditional change-of-command ceremony held at Navy Operational Support Center in Cape Girardeau included bells and whistles used aboard ship to alert officers of the arrival and departure of high ranking officers.

Entering civilian life after seven years of service with the U.S. Navy was bittersweet for Lt. Jeremy R. Freeman, a 1995 Cape Girardeau Central High School graduate.

"It has been an enjoyable tour," he said. But when his career took him out of state, he thought the opportunity to connect with the community was out of reach. Now he hopes he will be able stay in Southeast Missouri.

Freeman took command of the Cape Girardeau center in 2004, leading nine full-time support staff and 140 drilling reservists. During his tour he mobilized 17 reservists to Iraq and Afghanistan and was integrally involved in the Base Realignment and Closure process.

Freeman received a commendation medal for meritorious service during the ceremony.

Replacing Freeman is Lt. Isaac Armstrong IV, who has served on nuclear submarines and been the manager of the nuclear propulsion officer candidate program.

Armstrong has been approved for a promotion to commander sometime this year.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133