A significant leadership transition took place at Coast Guard Sector Charleston on Friday morning during a formal Change of Command ceremony. The ceremony, a time-honored military tradition, marked the transfer of authority from Captain Francis DelRosso to Captain Shawn Lansing, who will now lead the South Carolina coast. This tradition not only honored the dedication of the outgoing commander but also celebrated the continuity of leadership within the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Change of Command Ceremony
Commander Chris Nichols, USCG, opened the ceremony with a reflection on the importance of the Change of Command. “The change of command is a revered military tradition, which formally restates the continuity and authority of command. It is a formal custom, conducted before the assembled crew, and it confirms to the men and women of the unit that the authority of command is maintained,” said Nichols.
The ceremony marked the conclusion of Captain Francis DelRosso’s leadership as Sector Charleston’s Commanding Officer, a position he held since 2023. DelRosso spoke fondly of his time in command, focusing on the team’s dedication and collaboration, which played a key role in ensuring the safety and security of Charleston’s significant maritime operations. “Anything that happened in this big, beautiful port… it was mitigated with the right course of action, handled with grace and professionalism every single time,” DelRosso said. He expressed his pride in the teamwork and success of the Coast Guard personnel under his command.
New Leadership with Captain Shawn Lansing
Captain Shawn Lansing assumed command with enthusiasm, bringing over 34 years of experience in the U.S. Coast Guard. Lansing’s career has spanned multiple operational assignments across various ports and states, and he recently served as the Coast Guard representative in Charleston. His appointment as captain marks a new chapter in his career, and he expressed his deep respect and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Charleston team.
“It’s an incredible privilege and honor to have the charge to lead with this team. Both the Coast Guard and the local partners, the team here in Charleston is incredible,” said Captain Lansing. He emphasized his commitment to continue working alongside local partners to ensure the success of the maritime transportation system, which plays a critical role in the region’s economy and security.
Lansing outlined his priorities for his tenure, saying, “My aspirations are to lead, get the mission done, and make sure that our people flourish while they do it. That’s number one priority for all of Charleston, the nation, and the people.” He will serve as Sector Charleston’s captain for the next three years, guiding the Coast Guard’s mission alongside local teams.
Looking Forward
The Change of Command ceremony signals not just a transition in leadership, but also a renewed sense of commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of the U.S. Coast Guard’s operations on the South Carolina coast. With Lansing now in charge, there are high expectations for continued collaboration, progress, and achievement. As for Captain DelRosso, he looks forward to spending more time with his family after a successful and impactful career in the Coast Guard.XX
The Change of Command at Coast Guard Sector Charleston represents a pivotal moment for the U.S. Coast Guard, highlighting both the tradition of leadership transitions and the importance of strong, cooperative efforts in maritime security. Captain Lansing’s leadership will undoubtedly bring continued success to the region, ensuring the safety and protection of Charleston’s critical maritime assets for years to come.
