CLEARWATER, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater held a change of command ceremony, Thursday.
Capt. David McCown relieved Capt. Scott Phy as commanding officer of Air Station Clearwater during the ceremony presided over by Rear Adm. Adam Chamie, commander of Coast Guard Southeast District.
“It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve alongside the dedicated men and women of Air Station Clearwater,” said Phy. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together over the past three years, from responding to Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton; to securing our Southeastern maritime border and expanding U.S. partnerships; to saving lives every day. Air Station Clearwater crews have always answered the call of those in need of rescue and they will continue to do so under Captain McCown’s leadership.”
Phy retired following the change of command ceremony after 28 years of service.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to serve at Air Station Clearwater and the Coast Guard Southeast District and continue the exceptional legacy of the unit,” said McCown. “I am honored to be part of such an amazing team of professionals to support our national priorities and serve the maritime public on a daily basis.“
McCown previously served as the Chief of Incident Management assigned to the Coast Guard Northeast District in Boston.
The change of command ceremony marks the transfer of total responsibility and authority from one individual to another. It is a time-honored tradition conducted before the assembled crew, as well as honored guests and dignitaries, to formally demonstrate the continuity of authority within a command.
Air Station Clearwater is composed of more than 400 active duty, reserve, Auxiliary and civilian personnel, who provide critical mission support to the Southeast District.
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