USS Florida (SSGN 728) (Blue) Crew Holds Change of Command

KINGS BAY, Ga. — Capt. Stephen M. Col relieved Capt. Joseph M. Spinks as commanding officer of the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) (Blue) during a ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay chapel, Oct. 2.

Spinks assumed command of the Blue Crew in October 2024. During his tenure, he led the submarine and its crew through a highly demanding, two-year Major Maintenance Period (MMP) that restored and modernized the vessel's critical systems.

“The restoration of USS Florida is a direct result of the tireless effort and tenacity of her crew over the last two years," Spinks said. "Their dedication to getting this vessel back into the fight has been extraordinary, and I am deeply honored to have stood alongside them as their Commanding Officer."

Col, the incoming commanding officer, most recently served on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. He expressed his readiness to lead the crew as they return the modernized warship to operational service. “I am incredibly honored to assume command of the USS Florida Blue Crew and lead this exceptional group of dedicated submariners," Col said. "Captain Spinks' leadership has been vital in guiding this crew through the rigorous demands of our Major Maintenance Period. Because of their collective tenacity, this historic warship is fully restored and ready to return to sea to stand watch. Operating under our motto, 'Fortes Fortuna Adiuvat' (Fortune Favors the Brave), we are ready to project power, support our special operations forces, and answer our nation’s call wherever we are needed."

USS Florida is the first submarine and the sixth U.S. Navy ship named after the state of Florida. Originally commissioned as a ballistic-missile submarine (SSBN 728) in June 1983, it completed 61 strategic deterrent patrols before being selected for conversion to a guided-missile submarine (SSGN) in 2003. Since its conversion, the submarine has provided the Navy with unprecedented strike capabilities, carrying up to 154 Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and supporting special operations forces.

Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is the homeport for all East Coast Ohio-class submarines.

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