"KINGS BAY, GA. " On 30 July 2026, Commander, Submarine Squadron 20 relieved Cmdr. Joseph Sammur as commanding officer of USS West Virginia (SSBN 736) (Blue Crew) due to loss of confidence in his ability to command. Submarine Squadron 20 Deputy for Training, Cmdr. Luke Kelvington, has temporarily assumed command of West Virginia (B). The submarine is currently in port conducting a maintenance repair period. The relief of the CO does not impact the ship's mission or schedule. Sammur assumed command of USS West Virginia (B) on 14 August 2025. He has been temporarily reassigned to Submarine Group 10."

Cmdr. Joseph Sammur, 14 Aug 2025