YOKOSUKA, Japan - Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer officially recognized Capt. Jeffrey Griffin, 7th Fleet chief of staff, May 2, by presenting him with a Legion of Merit Medal after 32 years of service in the U.S. Navy.
Griffin, who has held the chief of staff position for the past four years, will retire in July. After accepting his award, Griffin took the opportunity to thank "Team 7th Fleet" for their continued support, and reflected on their many accomplishments during his tenure.
During Griffin’s time at 7th Fleet, the team partnered with the majority of the 36 maritime nations in the region and other partners throughout the world, annually covering over 100 exercises and senior leadership engagements to help enhance readiness and increase maritime security cooperation efforts throughout the Indo-Pacific Region."
Team 7th Fleet has been instrumental in maintaining stability and security in the region, and building regional partnerships, said Griffin. He also noted that fleet engagements with allies and partners have grown, demonstrating to the U.S. partners their commitment to the region.
“He was a great leader, who set high expectations for himself and those who served under him,” said Lt. Jeff Ryan, a theater security cooperation action officer at U.S. 7th Fleet. “He was also personally invested in the careers of staff members, and instrumental to the success of many officer and enlisted. It was an honor to serve with him.”
Incoming 7th Fleet Chief of Staff, Capt. Timothy Rexrode, who previously served as Commander, Submarine Squadron 1 from March 2015 until Jan. 2017, assumed chief of staff responsibilities on May 2.
For more than 75 years, U.S. 7th Fleet has patrolled the Indo-Pacific Region, promoting and enhancing regional security and stability. U.S. 7th Fleet spans more than 124 million square kilometers, stretching from the International Dateline to the India/Pakistan border; and from the Kuril Islands in the North to the Antarctic in the South. The 7th Fleet area of operations encompasses 36 maritime countries and 50 percent of the world’s population. At any given time there are roughly 50-70 U.S. ships and submarines, 140 aircraft, and approximately 20,000 Sailors within 7th Fleet's area of operation.