JFK Welcomes New Captain

In an emotionally charged speech, FitzPatrick spoke about how much he enjoyed his time aboard the storied aircraft carrier, affectionately known as Big John.

''This has been the best job I could have asked for, leading this fine Navy war-ship over the past 18 months,'' said FitzPatrick who has over seen more than 12,000 fix wing arrested landings aboard JFK. ''I do not believe there is a finer crew in the world's greatest Navy.''

FitzPatrick assumed command of JFK Oct. 9, 2004, in an at-sea ceremony. Immediately, he led the ship through the remaining two months of a combat deployment in support of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

Zecchin, a native of Detroit, was commissioned through the Aviation Reserve Officer Candidate program in August of 1980 after graduating from Western Michigan University.

Zecchin's tours of duty include Royal Air Force No. 42 Squadron; executive and commanding officer of Electronic Attack Squadron One Three Eight; executive officer of USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67); commanding officer of USS Denver (LPD-9) and most recently, the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations.

''The ship looks great, I am extremely proud of all of you. It is a testament of your hard work and determination,'' said Zecchin, Big John's 30th commanding officer. ''I have served on Big John before and it has never looked better.''

FitzPatrick said despite the uncertainty about the carrier's future, JFK Sailors have excelled at every task presented to them.

''Sailors on JFK are dedicated, hard working and understand the value of teamwork,'' said FitzPatrick. ''They have endured controversy and challenges and have succeeded. They are all great Americans.''

FitzPatrick departs the conventionally powered aircraft carrier for his next duty station with the Multi-National Iraqi Forces.