CHANGEOFCOMMAND CEREMONY

in the Sea Organization, when a new commanding officer takes command in a vessel or chapter or unit, relieving the former commanding officer of his duties, it is traditional to hold a formal change of command ceremony. It is a time for the crew of the vessel to pay their respects to the retiring commanding officer for the valuable leadership they received from him, and for the new commanding officer to be introduced to and welcomed by the crew over which he now assumes command. (FO 3348)