Commander, Self Defense Fleet, VADM OMACHI Katsushi conducted a change of Fleet Master Chief ceremony.

On 27 June, VADM OMACHI Katsushi, Commander, Self Defense Fleet conducted a change of Fleet Master Chief ceremony at the Maritime Operations Center, handing over the appointment from the 9th Fleet Master Chief, Self Defense Fleet, MCPO SHIMIZU Ken, to the 10th Fleet Master Chief, SDF, MCPO SASAKI Hidenori.

For the past one and a half years, the 9th FMC MCPO SHIMIZU had the heavy responsibility of the Fleet Master Chief, which is the core of operations in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and together with the Master Chief Petty Officers of approximately 190 subordinate units of the Self Defense Fleet, has provided appropriate guidance to sailors of each unit with full of love and a sense of responsibilities, assisted the Commander of the Self Defense Fleet, and contributed greatly to the achievement of the missions of the Self Defense Fleet.
MCPO SASAKI, who was designated as the 10th FMC, expressed his resolution, saying "Surveillance and other duties must be executed 24 hours a day, 365days a year, without cease, preparing for any contingencies through various training and exercises. I will work hard to create a proud and supportive environment for the crew members and their families, who continue to support us, making sure they can take pride in serving in the Self Defense Fleet. I am also committed to working alongside each squadron’s Command Master Chief and engaging in activities to achieve this goal."

The Self Defense Fleet maintains readiness and contributes to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, not only for the defense of Japan but also for the realization of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” in cooperation with allied and like-minded navies.

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