Rear Admiral Joe Leidig turned over command to Rear Admiral John Richardson during a ceremony at Nisida, a small island near Naples, Italy, July 22, 2009.

Richardson takes on four titles from Leidig: Director, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa, Operations and Intelligence; Deputy Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet; Commander Submarines, Allied Naval Forces South; and Commander, Submarine Group Eight.

"I am very excited to be part of this stellar team in Europe and Africa," said Richardson. "It is clear to me that we are ready for any challenge and opportunity. I am honored to be serving with you and excited to get started."

Leidig assumed the four titles May 4, 2007. The 1978 Naval Academy graduate in Mathematics also earned a master's degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in 1994. Leidig's next assignment will be as Chief of Staff, J5, Joint Staff.

"The journey over the past two years has been incredible. Today, the pace of operations is high and we have blazed many trails," said Leidig. "Thank you to all the Sailors and Civilians in these great commands, they are amazing professionals. Never in my career have I been more proud to be part of such a great team."

Richardson comes to Naples from U.S. Joint Forces Command as the Director of Strategy and Policy. He is a 1982 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and holds master's degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the National War College.