Captain Martin and Captain Oditt salute each other during a change-of-command and retirement ceremony at San Jacinto College Apr. 24, 2017. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Edward J.Wargo
HOUSTON — Capt. Kevin D. Oditt relieved Capt. Peter F. Martin during a change of command and retirement ceremony, at San Jacinto College in Pasadena, Monday.
Oditt was previously assigned as the chief of prevention at the Eighth Coast Guard District in New Orleans. He assumed duty as commander of Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston, overseeing all ports and waterways in the region including the Houston Ship Channel and Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.
Martin, a native of Syracuse, New York, retired with his wife, son and daughter after 27 years of service and plans to remain in Houston.
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.
