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VADM Aeschbach Retires, Passes Command of NAVIFOR to VADM Vernazza

Vice Admiral Kelly Aeschbach turned over the reins of Naval Information Forces Command to Vice Admiral Michael Vernazza in a packed ceremony in Suffolk, Virginia on 26 July 2024. Following the change of command part of the ceremony, with U.S. Fleet Forces Commander Admiral Daryl Caudle presiding, Aeschbach retired, wrapping up a remarkable 34-year career in the U.S. Navy. From her first tour as a P-3 AIO to her final tour as Commander, Naval Information Forces Command (also affectionately referred to as the “IBoss"), Aeschbach knocked it out of the park as a leader, Naval officer, mentor, and intelligence professional. 

Aeschbach leaves NAVIFOR in good hands with Vernazza at the helm now. Fresh off his tour as the Director, Maritime Information Warfare, U.S. Pacific Fleet/Commander, Fleet Information Warfare Command Pacific, Vernazza previously served as the Command of Navy Information Warfighting Development Command, and is a perfect fit as the new IBoss. In one of his initial messages to his force, he stated, “The critical foundations that will make our IW team successful are deeply rooted in our core values, pride and professionalism, teamwork, morale, integrity, resiliency, and diversity. I have complete confidence in our abilities to execute our mission and am privileged to be serving with you. I look forward to working with you as we execute our important mission together — with a weather eye on the horizon, urgency, confidence, and steadfast resolve.” 

Congratulations and to both Vice Admiral Aeschbach and Vice Admiral Vernazza!

Vice Adm. Mike Vernazza (left) assumed command of Naval Information Forces from Vice Adm. Kelly Aeschbach (right) during a Change of Command ceremony July 26. US Navy Photo
VADM Aeschbach, accompanied by her family, is piped ashore for the last time, 26 Jul 2024.
ADM Caudle, VADM Aeschbach, and VADM Vernazza cut the cake, celebrating the change of command.

More details on the change of command were reported by @U.S. Naval Institute (https://news.usni.org/2024/07/26/vernazza-takes-over-naval-information-forces-aeschbach-retires-from-naval-service).