"FOR THE STRENGTH OF
THE SHIP IS THE SERVICE"

CHANGE OF COMMAND

Cdr. E.B. Ackerman (left) and Cdr. J. F. Murphy after the relieving ceremony.

Although the sky was grey, Gurke's change of command on April 1, 1968, in the Gulf of Tonkin was a colorful event. Gurke's DASH deck was lined with gay signal flags, her sides and deck were freshly painted, and all ships personnel were meticulously attired in full dress blues.

As Commander James F. Murphy approached the deck immediately followed by Commander Eugene B. Ackerman, all hands stood at attention and were silent.

After a short prayer by the Chaplain, the crew stood at parade rest as the ceremony commenced. Commander Murphy was first to take the podium and in very few words extended his

appreciation to the crew and related his feelings concerning his command of Gurke. Shortly after Commander Murphy's comments, Commander Ackerman, the new skipper of Gurke, passed on his hopes and feelings concerning his new command. Having completed his speech, the climax was at hand.

The actual change of command was very brief and traditional. After the final words, "I stand relieved", Commander Eugene B. Ackerman was the new Commanding Officer of Gurke. The ceremony ended with a hand shake, and all stood silently watching; "Gurke" and Commander J. F. Murphy departed from the deck.

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Change of Command Photographs
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USS GURKE (DD-783) - WESTPAC Cruise Book, 1967 - 1968

"FOR THE STRENGTH OF THE SHIP IS THE SERVICE"

CHANGE OF COMMAND

Cdr. E.B. Ackerman (left) and Cdr. J. F. Murphy after the relieving ceremony.

Change of Command Photographs Photograph Request Form

To receive an e-mail copy of one of these photos please fill out & submit the following form.

Note: Press TAB key or use MOUSE to move from block to block. Do NOT Press ENTER until ready to submit this form.

"FOR THE STRENGTH OF
THE SHIP IS THE SERVICE"

Change of Command Photographs
Photograph Request Form

To receive an e-mail copy of one of these photos
please fill out & submit the following form.

Note: Press TAB key or use MOUSE to move from block to block.
Do NOT Press ENTER until ready to submit this form.