SIGONELLA, Sicily — Military and civilian co-workers, family and friends attended a change of command ceremony aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, June 24.

Navy Capt. W. Scott Butler relieved Navy Capt. Thomas J. Quinn as commanding officer of NAS Singonella.

Following the invocation by the chaplain, Navy Lt. Russell Wilson, Quinn introduced the ceremony's special guest, Navy Rear Adm. David J. Mercer, commander of Navy Region Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

"I have known T.Q. a long time", said Mercer. "He is a naval aviator, mentor, warrior, leader and husband."

Quinn's leadership and ability to lead during his time aboard NAS Sigonella was highlighted by Mercer. Mercer specifically noted Quinn's ability to supply sailors to support 6th Fleet and Operation Enduring Freedom operations.

Mercer congratulated Quinn on his accomplishments by awarding him the Legion of Merit with a Gold Star for exceptionally meritorious conduct and the performance of outstanding services from May 2007 to June 2010.

Quinn thanked the many people he worked with and his family in both English and Italian. During his speech, Quinn stressed service to the fleet, service to each other and finally service to family. He read a few lines from an essay conveying his meaning of family.

"My most proudest accomplishment instilled in the community is not what can you do for me, but what can I do for you," said Quinn. "You have to take care of each other."

Quinn then proceeded to read his orders, directing him to where he and his wife, Heather Quinn, will be stationed.

Butler read his orders pronouncing himself the new commanding officer of NAS Sigonella and addressed the audience in both Italian and English, opening the door to new family members.

"I look forward to my time here," said Butler. "I don't just mean my immediate family; I mean the entire Sigonella family."