The command of the Fighting Marlins of Patrol Squadron (VP) 40 changed May 2 during a ceremony as Cmdr. Mark Stevens relinquished command to Cmdr. Christopher Saindon, the squadron’s executive officer for the past year.

The squadron, joined by the guest of honor, Capt. Kenneth Seliga, commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 10, as well as family, friends, and other distinguished visitors at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

The completion of the ceremony marked the end of a highly successful tour for Cmdr. Stevens, who took command March 30, 2007.  Under his command, VP-40 achieved the significant milestone of 40 years and 260,000 mishap-free flight hours.

Additionally, VP-40 completed one of the most successful deployments in P-3 history flying over 10,000 hours and completing over 1,500 missions while being deployed to 5th Fleet, based primarily out of Al Udeid, Qatar.  This achievement was honored by VP-40 being named the winner of the 2007 Battle E award, CNO Safety “S” and nominated for the Arleigh Burke Trophy.  Additionally, the command achieved a plus-one year DUI free milestone. 

Saindon spoke highly of his predecessor as commanding officer.

“Serving under Skipper Stevens during this past year has truly been an honor,” Saindon said. “He was a true deck-plate leader who always remained focused on the mission. I would like to thank him personally for his friendship, mentorship and guidance.”

Stevens will report to the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense where he will assume the duties as assistant for maritime defense.

As he prepares to start a new chapter in his career, Stevens praised the Sailors of VP-40.

“Serving with this phenomenal group of officers, chiefs and Sailors has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” he said. “The team had a record setting deployment in one the harshest environments in the world. Their hallmarks were professional execution, pride in job well done, making things better and taking care of each other. I’m extremely proud to have served with all of them.”

Saindon assumes command of VP-40 in the midst of a busy inter-deployment readiness period. During the next year as the squadron prepares for their next deployment, Fighting Marlins combat aircrews will conduct numerous detachments around the globe in support of both operational and training mission objectives. 

Cmdr. Michael “Bossman” McClintock steps in as VP-40 executive officer.