Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 1 Holds Change of Command Ceremony

SAN DIEGO – Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 1 held a change-of-command ceremony at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, Calif., where Cmdr. Ben Gabbard relieved Cmdr. Matthew Lovitt as commanding officer in front of distinguished guests, squadron personnel, family members, and friends, Sept. 10, 2026.

During his tenure as commanding officer, Lovitt, a native of Chattanooga, Tenn., led approximately 400 Sailors at MSRON-1 through a period of high-tempo operational tasking and tactical evaluations. Under his command, MSRON-1 Sailors qualified, trained, certified, and deployed across multiple areas of responsibility andconsistently achieved exceptionally high scores on inspections across all warfare areas. MSRON-1 also played a pivotal role in supporting the establishment of MSRON-5, providing key personnel, equipment and guidance in the command’s development.

“It has been such a privilege for me to lead the finest members of our Navy,” said Lovitt. “This team seeks excellence and strives to be the best, and it has been my honor to witness their many successes.They are in good hands as Cmdr. Gabbard is an exemplary leader and will lead MSRON-1 to even higher levels.”

Gabbard, a native of Arnold, Md., assumed command of MSRON-1 following a successful tour as the squadron executive officer.

“I couldn’t be more excited for this opportunity to lead such an outstanding group of Sailors,” said Gabbard. “Congratulations to Cmdr. Lovitt on a superb tour and for continuing the long and storied history of MSRON-1!”

Capt. Jedediah Kloppel, commander, Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 1, served as the presiding officer and noted the squadron’s operational achievements and warfighting readiness under Lovitt’s leadership.

“Cmdr. Lovitt’s time in command was defined by relentless drive, high standards, and a genuine commitment to his people,” said Capt. Jedediah Kloppel, commander, Maritime Expeditionary Security Group 1. “He hands over a battle-tested, high-performing squadron to Cmdr. Gabbard, whose proven leadership ensures MSRON-1 will remain at the leading edge of expeditionary security.”

MSRON-1 is an expeditionary, multi-service command that executes a full spectrum of combat and combat-support missions, including littoral combat and embarked security teams on high-value assets in support of global force management and major combat operations.

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