Coast Guard Capt. Mark Fedor, left, Capt. Jeffrey Randall, right, and Vice Adm. Scott Buschman, center, stand together after the change of command of the Coast Guard Cutter James, Tuesday, June 5, 2018. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ryan Dickinson)
CHARLESTON, S.C. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter James conducted a change of command ceremony Tuesday at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
During the ceremony, Capt. Mark Fedor transferred command of Coast Guard Cutter James to Capt. Jeffrey Randall.
Fedor has served as the James’ commanding officer since May 2016 and has lead the James’ crew in the interdiction of 25 drug smuggling vessels, the seizure of 21 tons of cocaine valued at $625 million, the detainment of 81 suspected narcotic traffickers, and relief efforts in Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria.
The change of command ceremony marks a transfer of total responsibility and authority from one individual to another. It is a time-honored tradition, conducted before the assembled crew, as well as honored guests and dignitaries to formally demonstrate the continuity of the authority within a command.
“What truly made this a memorable tour was the talent, positive attitude, and camaraderie of the best crew in the fleet,” said Fedor. “The James team overcame adversity at every turn and not only survived, but thrived in the most challenging circumstances.”
Fedor is transferring to Washington, D.C. where we will hold the position of Executive Assistant to the Commandant of the Coast Guard.
“I look forward to the opportunity before us to continue the Joshua James tradition of brave and faithful service as well as always being Semper Paratus,” said Randall.
Randall comes to Charleston from Portsmouth, VA, where he held the position of Chief, Atlantic Area Operational Forces.
