A change of command was held today to transfer command authorities of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLANT), Marine Forces Command (MARFORCOM), and Marine Forces Northern Command (MARFOR NORTHCOM) from Brig. Gen. John F. Kelliher, III to Lt. Gen. Brian W. Cavanaugh during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia.

Kelliher is a native of Hanson, Massachusetts, and graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He was commissioned in 1992 and designated an unrestricted Naval aviator in 1994. Kelliher was the deputy commander, FMFLANT, MARFORCOM, MARFOR NORTHCOM and served as the commander following Lt. Gen. Michael E. Langley’s relief and subsequent promotion to four-star general.

"I am honored to have been entrusted with the leadership of this command and look forward to serving under Lt. Gen. Cavanaugh's leadership as we continue to develop the Naval expeditionary force with our U.S. Fleet Forces Command partners and support U.S. Northern Command's missions," said Kelliher.

Cavanaugh is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy. He was commissioned in 1990 and was designated a Naval aviator in 1992.

The Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. David Berger, and the Commander, U.S. Northern Command, Gen. Glen D. VanHerck, attended the ceremony to welcome Cavanaugh and impart their highest endorsement of his superior achievements and impeccable troop-leading ability.  

"I'm grateful for this opportunity to lead this outstanding team and fulfill the future Marine Corps vision with our joint and Navy partners. Thank you, Gen. Berger and Gen. VanHerck, I am humbled by your continued trust and confidence. And, as always, I'm especially grateful to my family. Their love and support allows me to serve this Nation and lead the Marines entrusted to me," said Cavanaugh.

Ceremony imagery is available at www.marforcom.usmc.mil. Media interested in amplifying information should contact the office of Communication Strategy and Operations at (757) 836-4376.