VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Naval Air Station Oceana has a new commanding officer.

Capt. Josh Appezzato, an Alameda, California, native, relieved Capt. Steve Djunaedi in a change of command ceremony on Friday.

Images provided by the U.S. Navy

“I cannot overstate the impact your leadership had,” said Rear Adm. Carl Lahti about Djunaedi, who assumed command on Feb. 24, 2023. “You lived and breathed Oceana, dealing with a broad scope of issues requiring you to balance the interests of the fleet, our warfighters, and their families and community,” said Lahti. “Your vision and dedication have left Oceana more ready, more relevant, and more vital than ever before. You demonstrated a strong and unwavering commitment to the Navy and, like any great leader, I have no doubt you passed this on to those who have served with you.”

Djunaedi, a New York City native and 1997 Naval Academy grad, is retiring after 28 years in the Navy.

Image provided by the U.S. Navy

“I learned everything I know about service, leadership and community from the Navy, and from the people that make up our incredible team here at NAS Oceana,” Djunaedi said on Friday. “The people that make up ‘Team Oceana’ understand what we do here everyday matters, and makes a difference to the lives of our service members, civilian workforce, and their families. That level of commitment and compassion does not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything. Serving alongside you has been an honor beyond words.”

Appezzato is a University of Notre Dame grad who was designated a Naval Flight Officer in 2002. He’s been to and has served as an instructor with TOPGUN, and has made combat deployments with VFA22, the Fighting Redcocks; VFA-154, the Black Knights; and VFA-41, the Black Aces. He’s also notably been the air boss for the USS George Washington.