NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY BAHRAIN --
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY BAHRAIN (July 1, 2021) – Task Force (TF) 53 held a change of command ceremony onboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain, July 1.
Capt. Michael Toth relieved Capt. Michael B. O’Driscoll as commander of TF 53 in the ceremony, presided over by Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, deputy commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet.
Before relinquishing command, O’Driscoll thanked the Sailors, families and supporting members of TF 53.
“Leading and representing Sailors, chief petty officers, civilians and officers of Task Force 53 has been the highlight of my professional life,” said O’Driscoll. “Doing what you have done for yourself, command, fleet and country, will resonate with me forever and what you taught me, I will take forth to my next tour.”
TF 53 coordinates replenishment-at-sea efforts and delivers passengers, mail, cargo, ammunition, provisions and fuel throughout the 5th Fleet area of operations via air, land and sea modes.
Its accomplishments under O’Driscoll included the completion of more than 1,500 logistics evolutions to support five carrier strike groups, four amphibious ready groups, and more than 60 U.S. and coalition vessels.
After accepting command of TF 53, Toth expressed his excitement to work with his new crew.
“I am humbled and privileged to have the opportunity to lead the outstanding members of Task Force 53,” said Toth. “I look forward to supporting your many accomplishments over the next two years in this dynamic and challenging theater.”
U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse is comprised of 20 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Strait of Bab el Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.
For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit www.cusnc.navy.mil/