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The Navy has removed Cmdr. Joseph Sammur from command of the ballistic-missile submarine USS West Virginia’s Blue Crew, citing “loss of confidence in his ability to command,” according to a July 30 announcement from Submarine Squadron 20 in Kings Bay, Georgia.
The squadron said the relief took place on July 30, 2026. The announcement did not provide additional details about the decision or name a replacement.
USS West Virginia (SSBN 736) is an Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine based at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. Like other boats in its class, it operates with alternating Blue and Gold crews to maximize time at sea on strategic deterrent patrols, a key element of the sea-based leg of the U.S. nuclear triad.
Submarine Squadron 20, headquartered at Kings Bay, oversees the training, readiness and operations of Atlantic-based Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines.
