‘Defining Tour’ of Navy Career: Capt. Burke Gives Up Helm of Reagan

Capt. Thom Burke's three-year stint as commanding officer of the Coronado-based aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan came to an end Tuesday, according to the Navy, and Capt. Christopher Bolt will take his place.

Burke led the Reagan during relief operations off the coast of Japan in 2011, following that nation's devastating earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis. He was also in command during an overhaul of the ship last year.

“What this ship and crew have been able to achieve over the last three years has been amazing,” Burke said. “I am humbled and blessed to have been a part of this team, and it's been, hands down, the defining tour of my naval career.”

Burke will report to the Naval Air Forces command to await his next assignment.

He was relieved by Bolt, who has been a senior military assistant. He served the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Networks and Information Integration/Department of Defense Chief Information Officer for two years.

“There are more challenges ahead for this ship, but I know of no more qualified officer than Chris Bolt to take the helm,” Burke said. ‘He takes over a proud ship with a great reputation, and the future is bright.”

Bolt said he hopes to continue the vessel's tradition of success and improve on what Burke built.

– City News Service