EVERETT — U.S. Navy Capt. James Duke Jr. relieved Capt. Michael Coury as commanding officer of Naval Station Everett in a change of command ceremony attended by military personnel, federal civilian employees and distinguished guests at the naval base on Tuesday, July 2.

Prior to assuming command, Duke was most recently assigned as special assistant for CVN Operations, Naval Reactors. During his Navy career, he has also commanded the USS O’Kane, and served as reactor officer on board the USS Abraham Lincoln.

Duke is a 1987 U.S. Naval Academy graduate with a bachelor of science degree in aerospace engineering, and also completed his joint education through the Naval War College and the Joint Forces Staff College. He now resides in Lake Stevens.

Coury will report to his new assignment as the chief of staff for Commander Carrier Strike Group 11, the USS Nimitz carrier strike group.

Naval Station Everett, Snohomish County’s second largest employer, is home to six U.S. Navy home-ported ships and two U.S. Coast Guard vessels. The base enhances the nation’s ability to accomplish strategic objectives by supporting U.S. Naval and Coast Guard forces, while providing readiness and quality of life for the sailors, civilians and families that they serve.

This announcement and more news about Naval Station Everett can be found online at www.homeportnorthwest.com.