Capt. Stefan Walch, Commodore, Destroyer Squadron Two (CDS-2), relieved USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) commanding officer, Cmdr. Devine Johnson and Command Master Chief Earl Sanders, due to a loss of confidence in their ability to effectively function as a command leadership team.
Johnson served as the USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) commanding officer since July 2020. Capt. William "Mac" Harkin, currently Deputy Commodore, Destroyer Squadron Two will be temporarily assigned as commanding officer until a permanent relief is identified.
Sanders served as the Bulkeley command master chief since June 2021 and will be replaced by Master Chief Petty Officer Christy Reed, also of CDS-2, until a permanent relief is assigned.
Johnson and Sanders will be temporarily reassigned to the staff of Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. There is no impact to the command's mission or schedule due to this relief.
