On January 30, 2025, a significant leadership change took place aboard the USS Gettysburg (CG 64), a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser homeported in Norfolk, Virginia.
Capt. Justin Hodges, who had served as commanding officer since February 2023, transferred out following a formal at-sea change of command ceremony, marking the end of his tenure in a year that was defined by both significant operational achievements and ongoing challenges.
Capt. John Lucas assumed command, taking the helm of a ship that had recently completed its workup cycle and was set to deploy as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) in September 2024. However, Hodges’ command of the USS Gettysburg was not without its controversies, particularly due to a December 2024 incident that is currently under investigation.
The USS Gettysburg’s crew was involved in a tragic mistake when they shot down one of their own aircraft, a F/A-18 Super Hornet, in the Red Sea, resulting in the destruction of the jet and the ejection of its two aviators.
While the investigation is still ongoing, the event has cast a shadow over the crew’s otherwise successful deployment.
Despite this, Hodges’ change of command, as confirmed by Navy officials, proceeded as planned and was described as a routine transition, with no formal mention of the incident affecting his departure from the ship.
Capt. Hodges’ Leadership and Accomplishments
Capt. Hodges assumed command of the USS Gettysburg in February 2023, stepping into a role that required not only tactical expertise but also the ability to lead a diverse and dedicated crew through demanding operational cycles.
Under his leadership, the ship’s crew completed the rigorous workup cycle in preparation for deployment.
On January 30, 2025, a significant leadership change took place aboard the USS Gettysburg (CG 64), a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser homeported in Norfolk, Virginia.
Capt. Justin Hodges, who had served as commanding officer since February 2023, transferred out following a formal at-sea change of command ceremony, marking the end of his tenure in a year that was defined by both significant operational achievements and ongoing challenges.
Capt. John Lucas assumed command, taking the helm of a ship that had recently completed its workup cycle and was set to deploy as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) in September 2024. However, Hodges’ command of the USS Gettysburg was not without its controversies, particularly due to a December 2024 incident that is currently under investigation.
The USS Gettysburg’s crew was involved in a tragic mistake when they shot down one of their own aircraft, a F/A-18 Super Hornet, in the Red Sea, resulting in the destruction of the jet and the ejection of its two aviators.
While the investigation is still ongoing, the event has cast a shadow over the crew’s otherwise successful deployment.
Despite this, Hodges’ change of command, as confirmed by Navy officials, proceeded as planned and was described as a routine transition, with no formal mention of the incident affecting his departure from the ship.
Capt. Hodges’ Leadership and Accomplishments
Capt. Hodges assumed command of the USS Gettysburg in February 2023, stepping into a role that required not only tactical expertise but also the ability to lead a diverse and dedicated crew through demanding operational cycles.
Under his leadership, the ship’s crew completed the rigorous workup cycle in preparation for deployment.
In September 2024, the USS Gettysburg was deployed to the US European and Central Command areas of responsibility, where it served as the Air and Missile Defense Commander for the HSTCSG. This deployment represented a critical operational milestone for the ship and its crew, highlighting Hodges’ leadership and the ship’s strategic role in US defense operations.
In his farewell remarks, Capt. Hodges expressed profound pride in his time aboard the USS Gettysburg, calling it “the privilege of a lifetime” to serve as the commanding officer of such an exceptional crew.
He described the men and women under his command as embodying everything that makes the Navy great, acknowledging their resilience and commitment.
“Serving as the commanding officer of this extraordinary crew has been the privilege of a lifetime,” said Hodges. “These amazing men and women represent all that is great about our Navy and it’s been an enormous honor to serve with them.”
His leadership, particularly during a deployment marked by increased global tensions, reinforced the USS Gettysburg’s role as a key asset in US military operations.
The Investigation and Its Impact
Despite these accomplishments, Hodges’ departure comes at a time when the USS Gettysburg is embroiled in an investigation regarding the December incident involving the F/A-18 Super Hornet.
The friendly fire incident, which resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and the ejection of its two aviators, occurred while the US military was conducting airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Although the two aviators survived, the incident raised critical questions about operational procedures and the effectiveness of communication among the ship’s crew.
The Navy’s investigation into the incident is still underway, with few details being publicly released.
The Navy’s top aviation officer, in mid-January, mentioned that a “big debrief” had already taken place to understand the cause of the mishap and to ensure that lessons were learned.
As of now, however, there has been no official statement linking the investigation to Hodges’ transfer, and Navy officials have maintained that the change of command was part of the normal rotation process.
Capt. Lucas Takes Command
With Capt. Lucas now at the helm, the USS Gettysburg enters a new chapter.
Lucas, who previously served on the Joint Staff, J7 Directorate, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
In his remarks, he expressed admiration for the crew’s “attitude and resiliency,” underscoring the importance of maintaining a positive and adaptable mindset in the face of challenges.
“What struck me most about this crew was your attitude and resiliency,” said Lucas. “I am motivated, honored, and humbled to be your commanding officer.”
His leadership will undoubtedly be tested as the ship continues to carry out its missions in the Middle East and beyond, all while adapting to the ongoing investigation and recovery from the December incident.
Lucas’ arrival coincides with an important period for the USS Gettysburg, as the ship has not only completed its deployment but also remains involved in various security and defense activities, particularly related to air and missile defense.
Under his leadership, the crew will likely be called upon to continue their critical role in regional stability, supporting US operations in strategic areas, while also processing the lessons learned from the recent mishap.
