NSA Bahrain Hold Change of Command

By MC1 Sean P. Gallagher,

NSA Bahrain

Public Affairs

Capt. Zachariah Aperauch relieved Capt. William Lane as Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain’s commanding officer during a change of command ceremony June 15.

Capt. Lane, a 1999 Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduate, became commanding officer of NSA Bahrain in June 2021. During the ceremony, Lane extended words of gratitude to those who helped him achieve success during his time as commanding officer.

“I am super proud of everything this team accomplished,” said Lane. “As for me personally, I am confident they helped me be better as I hand the reins off to Zach.”

Rear Adm. Brad Collins, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central, presided over the ceremony, and spoke highly of the accomplishments of NSA Bahrain under Capt. Lane’s command.

“Your steadfast leadership, attention to detail, and expectation for excellence have served you and the personnel and families of Bahrain well. So well in fact, the installation won the Golden Anchor Award for Retention Excellence in 2021 and 2022,” said Collins. “Under your leadership, NSA Bahrain maintained a 5-star accredited MWR Program and won several awards for installation safety, fire services, and their galley. Your time here has been a whirlwind and I’m so glad that I was able to be here today to send you off to be the new Chief of Staff of Navy Region Southeast.”

After the ceremonial reading of orders, Capt. Lane thanked his family and colleagues for their support during his time at NSA Bahrain.

Capt. Aperauch, from Tallahassee, Florida, assumed command of NSA Bahrain following a tour as Chief of the Future Capabilities Division in the J8 Directorate of U.S. European Command.

During his speech, Capt. Aperauch’s speech, spoke of his drive and commitment to continue improving upon the successes of his predecessor.

“As we look to the future, I want to assure each of you that my primary goal will be to support you as we work together to further the mission of Naval Support Activity Bahrain,” said Aperauch. “I am here to serve you, as you support the fleet. Together, we will ensure that this base continues to be a beacon of American resolve in the Middle East.”

NSA Bahrain’s mission is to support U.S. and coalition maritime operations throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations by providing security for ships, aircraft and tenants on board NSA Bahrain and assigned detachments. NSA Bahrain provides efficient and effective shore services to sustain the fleet, enable the fighter and support the family with honor, courage and commitment.