The Signature
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Commander, Task Force 67 Changes Hands in Sigonella By Lt. Erik D Arstein and Lt. Ryan E Miller , Commander Task Force 67 apt. Tim Thompson relieved Capt. William “I’m committed to continuing the momentum created Pennington Jr. as commander of CTF 67 and by Commodore Pennington and setting the conditions for commander, Fleet Air Sigonella during a ceremony presided our deployed squadrons and aircrew to excel on station in by Vice Adm. Gene Black, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet (C6F). support of Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Black recognized Pennington’s accomplishments and and U.S. 6th Fleet,” said Thompson. presented him with a Legion of Merit. During his time in Sigonella, Pennington worked toward “Commodore Pennington’s depth and breadth of strengthening the C6F operational and partnership goals knowledge are unsurpassed,” said Black. “He is an invaluable in Europe and Africa. Under his command, CTF 67 leader in the maritime patrol community and our Navy.” executed numerous operational missions including the first Along with thanking Pennington for his hard work while P-8A Poseidon aircraft detachments in Bulgaria, Finland, in Sigonella, Black also expressed his excitement of having and Georgia. Along with supporting the U.S. European Thompson in the C6F area of operations. Command, CTF 67 also operated under U.S. Africa “And to your relief, Capt. Tim Thompson, it is great to Command in countries such as Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, have you on the team,” said Black. “I know you will apply Morocco, and Tunisia. your vast experience and training as you command CTF Additionally, P-8A aircraft took part in over 53 multi67.” national exercises, executed armed flight operations, Pennington’s outgoing speech highlighted the team’s and conducted aerial re-fueling throughout the region in accomplishments during his tenure. He also spoke about support of allies and partners. CTF 67’s continued high quality work and expectations for Pennington’s next assignment will be to the Pentagon, the future. where he will work on the Office of the Chief of Naval “The most impressive thing is how the team goes about Operations’ staff. their business,” said Pennington. “This culture of excellence CTF 67 is responsible for command and tactical control doesn’t just happen; it takes work.” of deployed maritime patrol and reconnaissance squadrons After Thompson assumed command, he thanked throughout the European and African areas of responsibility. Pennington for his contributions to naval aviation and U.S. For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces forces in Europe and Africa. Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.c6f.navy.mil.
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