Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Europe Africa Central (EURAFCENT) held a change of command ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity, Naples, Italy, Aug 1.
Capt. Andrew W. Olsen relieved Capt. Rafael A. Miranda as commanding officer NAVFAC EURAFCENT. Rear Adm. Jorge Cuadros, commander, NAVFAC Atlantic, officiated the ceremony.
Miranda served as commanding officer from Aug. 11, 2023. During his leadership, NAVFAC EURAFCENT enhanced shore infrastructure readiness supporting combat operations, managed the Navy's largest real estate portfolio, and enabled strategic Fleet readiness at key locations through critical projects and contingency preparedness exercises. His focus on preventive maintenance, project governance, and wartime response capabilities ensured the command was prepared for any challenge, from volcanic eruptions in Iceland to supporting maritime contingency response during the Levant Crisis.
“Twenty-Four months ago, I stood up here on this same stage and told you I would pour my heart and soul into this job. I hope I did just that,” Miranda said. “I speak of keeping the warfighters in the fight. Yes, we are in the fight. Multiple conflicts in multiple areas. NAVFAC you always find ways to get the job done regardless of the challenges we face. NAVFAC, you guys rock. Every single one of you rock. Make sure you know that going forward. You guys are the best in the biz, the Miranda family loves you all.”
Cuadros awarded Miranda the Legion of Merit, commending his outstanding command tour and highlighting his crucial role as the right leader at the right time.
“You close a phenomenal tour here. Despite the daunting challenges our men and women face here in the AO [area of operations] you maintained a climate, culture, and spirit that has contributed to a more effective team, supporting readiness for the Fleet and all our supported commanders,” Cuadros said. “People are at the core of his being and he held each and every one in his command in his heart and represented their best interests. I am very thankful and proud of that.”
Olsen, previously served as the NAVFAC EURAFCENT operations officer.
“To my fellow service members, amazing civilian and host nation colleagues are the heart and soul of NAVFAC EURAFCENT,” Olsen said. “Your professionalism, expertise, and dedication to excellence are what make this command truly exceptional.”
Olsen added, “My philosophy is simple: succeed together. We are a community of professionals, and we are at our best when we collaborate, support each other and leverage the diverse talents and perspectives of everyone in our community. I look forward to our journey ahead. Let’s get to work.”
Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command is the naval shore facilities, base operating support, and expeditionary engineering systems command delivering life-cycle technical and acquisition solutions aligned to fleet and Marine Corps priorities. NAVFAC EURAFCENT supports fleet commanders by providing engineering assessments and agile acquisition strategy, constructing and maintaining shore infrastructure, and maximizing force readiness to enhance warfighter capability. NAVFAC EURAFCENT serves as the engineering link between the shore and the Fleet in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.
For updates on potential coverage opportunities, email NAVFAC-EAC-PAO@us.navy.mil.