Command of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ) 2 at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island has changed.

Cmdr. Mark Stockfish assumed command from Cmdr. Bryan Durkee in a ceremony held April 21 in Hangar 6. Presiding officer for the ceremony was Capt. John Scorby, Jr., executive assistant and military aide assistant, Secretary of the Navy (Energy, Installations and Environment).

During his command, Durkee led the VQ-2 Rangers in conducting continuous combat flight operations in support of the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance requirements of four combatant commanders. The squadron led task groups from four detachment sites, flying missions in many fleet exercises and carrier wing workups, as well as providing aircraft, combat reconnaissance crews and maintenance personnel.

In a press release, Durkee said leading the Rangers had been an honor, praising both the tools used and the sailors in his command.

“Today’s EP-3 is the most versatile and capable reconnaissance platform I have seen in my career,” he said. “I have truly been humbled by the way our sailors and aircrew lead and execute our mission.”

Durkee now heads to NAS Patuxent River, Md., Naval Aviation Systems Command.

Cmdr. Stockfish, who was the VQ-2 executive officer, now takes command of more than 450 personnel and 10 aircraft. Stockfish said Durkee’s leadership “melded the squadron into a cohesive and agile fighting force,” and he looks forward to the challenges of his new command.

“Although the squadron may be disestablished in the near future, we will make the most of our opportunities and continue to be the preeminent ISR force for the U.S. Navy,” he said.