Change of Charge Ceremony at Navy Entomology Center of Excellence

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — In a significant change of command ceremony held on June 21, 2024, at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, Cmdr. Ian Sutherland officially transferred his responsibilities as the officer in charge (OIC) of the Navy Entomology Center of Excellence (NECE) to Cmdr. Michael Kavanaugh. This event was attended by several notable guests, including Capt. Marion Gregg, Commanding Officer of Navy and Marine Corps Force Health Protection Command, who also served as the guest speaker.

During the ceremony, Capt. Gregg presented Cmdr. Sutherland with a Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of his exemplary service and contributions to the Navy. Cmdr. Sutherland’s tenure was marked by innovative approaches and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the health and operational readiness of naval forces.

In a unique twist, true to his entomologist roots, Cmdr. Sutherland incorporated live insects into his farewell speech. To commemorate the U.S. Navy’s 248th anniversary, he released 248 Aedes aegypti mosquitoes inside a seven-foot cube, making it a memorable and symbolic gesture. This marked the first known use of mosquitoes in a change of charge ceremony at NECE.

NECE’s mission is pivotal in ensuring the health and operational effectiveness of Navy forces globally. The center provides critical expertise in entomology and pest management, developing comprehensive strategies to control pests aboard ships, submarines, and naval installations. NECE’s responsibilities also include delivering operational medical entomology and pest management training to both military and civilian personnel within the Department of Defense (DOD) and managing all Navy shipboard pest management programs.

Additionally, NECE supports national strategic interests by engaging in collaborations and exchanges with foreign health and military partners. This engagement is crucial in promoting global health security and enhancing the operational capabilities of allied forces.

As Cmdr. Kavanaugh assumes command, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to advancing NECE’s mission. The center’s role remains indispensable in maintaining the health and readiness of naval forces, and under his leadership, NECE will continue to be at the forefront of entomological research and pest management within the Navy.

For more information about NECE and its programs, visit the Navy and Marine Corps Force Health Protection Command website.