Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group Holds Change of Command Ceremony
09 May 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Fla -- Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group (CPRG and CPRG Pacific) held a change of command ceremony on board Naval Air Station Jacksonville, May 2.
Rear Adm. Craig Mattingly relieved Rear Adm. Brett Mietus, assuming all duties and responsibilities as the 42nd Commander of CPRG and CPRG Pacific. Vice Adm. Dan Cheever, Commander, Naval Air Forces, served as the presiding officer.
Mietus, a native of Chesterfield, Virginia, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1992 and earned his wings as a Naval Flight Officer in 1994. He assumed command of CPRG on June 14, 2024. During his tenure, Mietus led a force of 157 aircraft and more than 6,300 personnel across four type/model/series. As Commander of Task Groups 180.87 and 120.27, he was responsible for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare mission support across the Atlantic theater.
In his farewell remarks, Mietus thanked the Sailors, civilians, and families who support the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force (MPRF). The Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force is the Navy’s primary provider of long-range airborne Anti-Submarine Warfare, Anti-Surface Warfare, and Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance.
“Day to day, you make it happen,” Mietus said. “You make the impossible look easy, making MPRF the most trusted and ready force.”
Mattingly, a native of Austin, Kentucky, and a 1995 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, previously served as Commander, Naval Service Training Command.
“As we step into this next chapter, our charge remains clear: prepare our forces for combat, embrace innovation, and uphold the legacy of excellence that defines the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force,” said Mattingly. “The strength of Maritime Patrol lies not only in our platforms, but in the unmatched professionalism and dedication of our people. Thank you for your service, and for your continued resolve.”
With more than 6,300 personnel stationed on both coasts, MPRF maintains a continuous global presence, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.