GROTON, Conn. – In a solemn yet celebratory ceremony on June 30 at the Naval Submarine Base New London, the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS South Dakota (SSN 790) saw a change of command as Cmdr. Dan Goodwin relieved Cmdr. Burnes Brown. Such transitional ceremonies, deeply rooted in naval tradition, are significant not only for the crew but resonate deeply with the essence of South Dakota itself—a land of resilience and robust determination.
Cmdr. Burnes Brown, who initiated his command in May 2024, is a testament to the virtues often attributed to the “Mount Rushmore State,” known for its unyielding spirit and commitment to excellence. During his tenure, the “South Dakota Warriors” executed a triumphant six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command area, followed by a swift return to the sea, showcasing their mission readiness and unmatched prowess. These successes led to them earning the SUBRON 4 Battle Efficiency ‘E’ Award alongside the prestigious Commander, Task Force (CTF) 69 ‘Hook-Em’ Award for excellence in anti-submarine warfare.
Rear Adm. Melvin Smith, serving as the guest speaker, lauded Cmdr. Brown’s leadership, emphasizing the indelible mark he left on the USS South Dakota, a vessel whose very name represents the valor and dedication of the people from this storied state. “The greatest leaders don’t spend their lives trying to put something into people; they spend their lives removing what keeps people from becoming who they already have the capacity to be,” Smith expressed. “Captain Brown, today your command is relieved, but the standard you created is not.”
Cmdr. Brown’s departure to the Joint Staff in Washington, D.C., marks a new chapter, but South Dakota’s legacy within the naval theater remains steadfast, mirroring the commitment South Dakotans have to their work, communities, and nation.
Succinctly capturing the weight of this transition, Cmdr. Dan Goodwin emphasized the enduring values that the state of South Dakota instills in its namesake submarine. Goodwin, a native of Las Vegas, Nevada, brings a wealth of experience following his successful tour at the PMS-351 Program Office. He articulated a vision of resilience akin to the granite faces of Mount Rushmore that stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the region.
Addressing the gathered families and crew, Goodwin said, “Life is about how you choose to deal with life’s punches. Continue to execute rule number one: treat everyone with a little bit of love and respect, and you’ll continue to succeed at life’s challenges.”
The presence of families at the change of command underscored the deeply personal nature of this ceremony. Cmdr. Brown gave heartfelt thanks to his wife, Whitney, and daughters, Ellie and Aiden, for their unwavering support. Similarly, Cmdr. Goodwin recognized his wife, Carrie, as the pillar of his strength, alongside their children, Eli, Lou, and Olive. Their acknowledgments resonate with the family-oriented culture that South Dakotans cherish.
Commissioned on February 2, 2019, the USS South Dakota stands 377 feet long and displaces nearly 7,900 tons, designed for a variety of missions including anti-submarine warfare, strike warfare, and special operations support. Its presence reflects the forward-thinking and innovative spirit of South Dakota—a state with a strong military history and a dedication to protecting freedom.
The USS South Dakota’s journey continues under Cmdr. Goodwin’s leadership, embodying the resilience, innovation, and patriotic spirit synonymous with its namesake. This submarine, much like the people and state it represents, is poised to navigate the challenges of the future with unwavering dedication and strength.
As this significant event draws to a close, the USS South Dakota’s story is irrevocably intertwined with the pride and spirit of its namesake state—a bastion of strength and innovation in defense of freedom across the world’s oceans.