NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY NAPLES, Italy –
Commander, Task Force (CTF) 69 held a change of command ceremony onboard Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy, Sept. 19, 2025.
Capt. Douglas Sattler, Jr. relieved Capt. Benjamin Selph as commodore of CTF 69, deputy commander of CTF 169, and chief of staff for Submarine Group 8.
Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet, was the presiding officer for the event and reflected on the tradition of the Navy’s change of command ceremony.
“As we celebrate 250 years of our Navy's contributions to our nation – deterring aggression, protecting freedom of the seas, and promoting security and stability across the globe, we are reminded that traditions like these are not just ceremonial,” said Vice Adm. Anderson. “They reflect the continuity of leadership, our collective responsibility, and demand for excellence in all that we do.”
Capt. Selph led CTF 69 in the execution of 15 named Theater Undersea Warfare operations, six allied Anti-Submarine Warfare exercises, and a five-year effort to open additional Allied ports to the Submarine Force – including the first-ever visit of a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine to Iceland in July of this year.
“You must know that what we do matters, and the work we are doing every day, the gains and improvements, significant improvements we've made over time have made a big difference. It's changing the world,” said Selph. “Be proud of what you do. I am proud of this team, what we've accomplished.”
Capt. Sattler, Jr., assumed command following a tour as Director, Future Operations for U.S. Pacific Fleet, and previously led the Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS San Juan (SSN 751) as commanding officer during the submarines deployment to U.S. 6th Fleet.
“We represent unity, cooperation and shared commitment to peace and stability,” said Sattler. “I look forward to building on these relationships, because together, we're stronger, and together as I take command my priorities are simple: accomplish the mission, take care of our people and families, and ensure task force 69 is always ready to answer the call.”
Commander, Task Force 69 is responsible for submarine warfare operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operations, and is comprised of attack submarines and guided missile submarines capable of destroying enemy surface ships and submarines.
Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance U.S. national interests, security and stability in Europe and Africa, and freedom of navigation in and around the Mediterranean.