Video: New CO Takes the Helm at Naval Base Coronado

Naval Base Coronado marked a change of command Thursday as the former top officer handed off responsibilities to the base executive officer.

The community is familiar with both men – Capt. Yancy Lindsey has been the commanding officer for three years, while Capt. Gary Mayes has served as executive officer since the fall of 2010.

Many local dignitaries attended the morning ceremony commemorating the change, from mayors Casey Tanaka of Coronado and Jim Janney of Imperial Beach to retired admirals Edward Martin and Lou Smith, both of Coronado.

Rear Admiral Dixon Smith, commander of Navy Region Southwest, offered praise for both Lindsey and Mayes during the hour-long ceremony, which concluded with a reception at the base's I-Bar.