Coast Guard Cutter Campbell holds change-of-command ceremony

Cmdr. Mark McDonnell shakes hands with Cmdr. Thomas Crane during a change-of-command ceremony at Station Portsmouth Harbor, New Castle, New Hampshire, Friday, July 12, 2019. The Campbell, a 270-foot Cutter with a crew complement of 100, is homeported in Kittery, Maine. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

BOSTON, Massachusetts — Cmdr. Thomas Crane assumed command of Coast Guard Cutter Campbell from Cmdr. Mark McDonnell during a change-of-command ceremony, Friday, July 12, 2019, at Station Portsmouth Harbor, New Castle, New Hampshire.

McDonnell is scheduled to report to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington, D.C.

"I had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most dedicated and talented men and women who make up our fine service," said McDonnell. "I know this crew will be well led and couldn’t have picked a better replacement than Cmdr. Tom Crane."

Crane assumes command after an assignment in the office of Cutter Forces at Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington, D.C.

“I am excited to be apart of the local community and work alongside the impressive Campbell crew," said Crane. "The cutter has an outstanding reputation, and I am humbled to serve as her next commanding officer."

Atlantic Area Commander Vice Admiral Scott A. Buschman presided over the ceremony.

The Campbell, a 270-foot Cutter with a crew complement of 100, is homeported in Kittery, Maine. The crew's missions include counter drug, alien and migrant interdiction, living marine resources protection, and search and rescue operations.

The change-of-command ceremony is a time-honored military tradition deeply rooted in Coast Guard history and signifies a complete transfer of authority and responsibility from one individual to another.

-USCG-